Blog

Prevnar 20: The Game-Changing Pneumonia Vaccine Now Free in Calgary

Are you worried about pneumonia? Well, here’s some exciting news that’ll make you breathe easier! The new Prevnar 20 pneumonia vaccine is now available for free in Calgary, and Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy – Remedy’sRx is here to help you get vaccinated. Let’s dive into what this means for you and your loved ones!

What’s the Big Deal About Pneumonia?

So, what exactly is pneumonia? It’s like your lungs decided to throw a party, but instead of fun, they invited inflammation and fluid. Not cool, lungs. Not cool at all.

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It leads to inflammation and fluid buildup in your air sacs, making it tough for oxygen to get into your bloodstream [1][2][3][4]. The result? You might find yourself coughing, feverish, and feeling like you’ve run a marathon just by walking to the kitchen.

Symptoms: When Your Lungs Are Crying for Help

Pneumonia symptoms can vary from “meh” to “holy moly, I need a doctor!” depending on what’s causing the infection, your age, and your overall health. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Cough (might come with a side of green, yellow, or even bloody mucus)
• Fever, sweating, and shaking chills (like you’re auditioning for a horror movie)
• Shortness of breath (stairs become your nemesis)
• Chest pain that gets worse when you breathe or cough (ouch!)
• Loss of appetite and fatigue (goodbye, favorite foods)
• Confusion, especially in older adults (more than usual, that is)
• Bluish lips or fingernails (not a fashion statement) [16][17][18]

For the tiny humans (newborns and infants), look out for:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Restlessness
• Difficulty breathing and eating [16][17]

The Vaccine Revolution: Enter Prevnar 20

Now, let’s talk about the superhero of our story: Prevnar 20. This new pneumococcal vaccine is like the Avengers of the vaccine world, protecting against 20 different types of pneumococcal bacteria [7][8].

Why Prevnar 20 is a Game-Changer

1. Broader Protection: Covers over 90% of the bacteria types that the previous vaccine (PNEU-P-23) did [7].
2. One and Done: Unlike some other vaccines, Prevnar 20 is a single-dose wonder [7].
3. Easier Administration: Comes in a prefilled syringe, making vaccination a breeze [7].

Free Vaccines in Alberta: Your Wallet’s New Best Friend

Here’s the cherry on top: Prevnar 20 is now available for free in Alberta! That’s right, your Albertan health card is your golden ticket to protection against pneumonia.

Who Should Get the Vaccine?

• Adults 65 years and older
• Adults 50 to 64 years with high-risk factors
• Adults 18 to 49 years with immunocompromising conditions [7]

For the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide 23-Valent Vaccine (Pneu-P-23):

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (Pneu-C-20)

Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy – Remedy’sRx: Your Vaccination Destination

Now, you might be wondering, “Where can I get this awesome vaccine?” Well, let me introduce you to Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy – Remedy’sRx!

We’ve set up shop in a cozy new plaza at 2505 Eversyde Avenue SW in Calgary, AB. We’re neighbors with Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen (for your post-vaccine celebratory meal), Mr. Lube, 7-Eleven, Eversyde Medical Clinic, and more. We’re just across 162 Avenue SW from the Bridlewood community, so you can’t miss us!

But wait, there’s more! We’re not just your average pharmacy. We’re a unique blend of a community pharmacy and a compounding pharmacy. This means we can:

1. Provide the Prevnar 20 vaccine
2. Fill your regular prescriptions for both acute and chronic conditions
3. Create compounded and customized prescriptions for those special cases

The Vaccination Process: Easy as 1-2-3

1. Book an appointment with us (or walk in, we’re flexible!)
2. Bring your Albertan health card
3. Get vaccinated and protected!

Side Effects: The Good, the Bad, and the Rare

Like any superhero, Prevnar 20 has its kryptonite. Most side effects are mild and short-lived, but it’s good to be aware:

Common side effects:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site (your arm might feel like it did arm day at the gym)
• Headache (time for a nap!)
• Muscle pain or stiffness
• Joint pain
• Fever [7][13]

Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions. If you experience difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, or swelling of the face or mouth, seek medical attention immediately [7][13].

Pneumonia vs. The Common Cold: Know Your Enemy

Ever wondered if you’ve got a cold or if it’s pneumonia trying to crash your party? Here’s a quick comparison:

Cold:

• Gradual onset
• Mild to moderate symptoms
• Usually clears up in a week or two

Pneumonia:

• Can come on suddenly
• More severe symptoms
• Can last for weeks and may require hospitalization

When in doubt, always consult your healthcare provider. Better safe than sorry!

Prevention: Your Personal Force Field Against Pneumonia

While the Prevnar 20 vaccine is your best defence, here are some additional ways to keep pneumonia at bay:

1. Wash your hands frequently (sing “Happy Birthday” twice for optimal cleanliness)
2. Don’t smoke (your lungs will thank you)
3. Get enough sleep (beauty rest for your immune system)
4. Eat a healthy diet (yes, vegetables are your friends)
5. Exercise regularly (Netflix marathons don’t count, sorry)

Conclusion: Breathe Easy with Prevnar 20

Pneumonia might be a formidable foe, but with Prevnar 20 and Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy – Remedy’sRx in your corner, you’re well-equipped for the fight. Don’t let pneumonia catch you off guard – get vaccinated today!

Remember, at Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy – Remedy’sRx, we’re not just about filling prescriptions. We’re about filling your life with health, wellness, and maybe a few pharmacy puns. So come on down to 2505 Eversyde Avenue SW in Calgary, AB, and let’s kick pneumonia to the curb together!

Stay healthy, Calgary!

References:

[1] Learn About Pneumonia | American Lung Association

[2] Pneumonia Overview: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment – Pfizer

[3] Pneumonia | Johns Hopkins Medicine

[4] Pneumonia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment – WebMD

[5] Pneumonia – What Is Pneumonia? | NHLBI, NIH

[6] Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Cleveland Clinic

[7] Use of pneumococcal vaccines in adults, including the use of 15-valent and 20-valent conjugate vaccines – Canada.ca

[8] Pneumonia Symptoms and Diagnosis – American Lung Association

[9] Pneumonia – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

[10] Pneumonia: Symptoms, Causes, Types and Treatments | Ada

[11] Atypical pneumonia: Causes, symptoms, and treatment – Medical News Today

[12] Bronchitis vs. Pneumonia: How To Tell the Difference – Verywell Health

[13] Bronchitis vs. Pneumonia: How to Tell – Healthline

[14] Pneumonia in Children | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

[15] Community-acquired pneumonia (non COVID-19) – BMJ Best Practice

[16] Guidelines for the management of adult lower respiratory tract infections – European Respiratory Journal

[17] 7 Common Respiratory Diseases – Verywell Health

[18] Use of pneumococcal vaccines in adults, including the use of 15-valent and 20-valent conjugate vaccines – Canada.ca

[19] https://www.ab.bluecross.ca/pdfs/pharmacy-benefacts/pharmacy-benefact-1185.pdf

[20] Alberta Blue Cross Pharmacy Benefact

[21] Pneumococcal Conjugate 20-Valent Vaccine Program

[22] Pneumococcal Conjugate 20-Valent Vaccine Pharmacy Information