What age should you get a pneumonia vaccine?

Older adults and people with certain long-term conditions may be advised to receive a pneumococcal vaccine even if they were not offered one recently. There is no single age that applies to everyone because the suitable vaccine and timing vary with prior doses and health status.

Pneumococcal vaccines protect against selected types of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. These bacteria can cause pneumonia and may also cause serious infections in the blood or around the brain. The vaccine does not prevent every cause of pneumonia; influenza, COVID-19, and other infections can also affect the lungs.

A clinician may recommend vaccination earlier or on a different schedule for someone with reduced immune function, no functioning spleen, a cochlear implant, a cerebrospinal fluid leak, or certain chronic heart, lung, kidney, or liver conditions. The exact recommendation depends on the person's records.

Bring vaccination records to a GP or vaccination service and list relevant diagnoses, medicines that affect immunity, previous reactions, and any planned immune-suppressing treatment. The clinician can identify which pneumococcal product was given before and whether another dose is due under the current local schedule.

A mild sore arm, tiredness, or fever can occur after vaccination. Rest, fluids, and a suitable pain reliever may help. Stay at the clinic for the observation period they specify, and follow its instructions if symptoms develop later.

Treat swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, severe wheezing, collapse, or difficulty breathing after vaccination as an emergency. These symptoms can indicate a serious allergic reaction, so call emergency services immediately.

Vaccination is preventive and does not treat an infection already present. Seek prompt assessment for difficult or rapid breathing, blue or grey lips, confusion, severe drowsiness, chest pain, or signs of sepsis. A cough, fever, chills, or coughing up phlegm that is worsening also warrants clinical advice, especially in a vulnerable person.

Ask which pneumococcal vaccine matches your age and medical history, whether previous doses change the plan, and whether other vaccines can be given at the same visit. Mention pregnancy, acute illness, allergies, missing records, and upcoming surgery or immune-suppressing treatment so timing can be personalised.