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Vaccinations

Pneumococcal vaccine

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The pneumococcal vaccine protects against serious illnesses like pneumonia and sepsis. It's recommended for people at higher risk of these illnesses.

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against some types of infections that can cause serious illnesses like meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia.

The pneumococcal vaccine is for babies, adults aged 65 and over, and people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from pneumococcal infections.

Most people who need it can have the pneumococcal vaccine. You cannot have it if you've had a serious allergic reaction to it or an ingredient in it.

You can check the ingredients in the pneumococcal vaccine by asking to see the patient leaflet or searching for it online.

Your GP surgery should contact you to arrange you or your child's pneumococcal vaccinations. Welders and metal workers should speak to their employer.

Side effects of the pneumococcal vaccine include swelling or pain where the injection was given, a high temperature, tiredness and loss of appetite.

The pneumococcal vaccine gives some protection by about 3 weeks from when you've had it. Most adults only need 1 dose for long-term protection.

Page last reviewed: 26/06/2023
Next review due: 26/06/2026