The anti-pneumonia jab explained

Different pneumococcal vaccines cover different bacterial types. The appropriate vaccine and timing depend on age, medical risk factors and previous doses, so bring any available vaccination record to a clinician or vaccination service.

Pneumococcal bacteria can cause lung infection as well as serious infection in the blood or around the brain. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise bacterial components included in the product. It cannot cause pneumococcal infection, and it does not protect against viral causes such as influenza or COVID-19.

Vaccination may be recommended routinely by age or earlier for people with certain long-term conditions, a weakened immune system, absent or poorly functioning spleen, a cochlear implant, or a leak of fluid around the brain and spinal cord. Local schedules determine the exact recommendation.

Tell the vaccinator about previous pneumococcal doses, serious vaccine allergies, current illness, pregnancy, immune-suppressing treatment and planned surgery involving the spleen or a cochlear implant. A mild illness may not prevent vaccination, but a more significant acute illness may lead to postponement.

Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle aches or a mild fever can occur after vaccination. Rest, drink fluids and ask a pharmacist or clinician which pain reliever is suitable for you. Keep the vaccination record because it can affect which future dose is advised.

Call emergency services for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, marked weakness, or a rapidly spreading rash after any vaccine. These may indicate a severe allergic reaction and should be treated immediately.

Vaccination does not rule out pneumonia. Seek urgent assessment for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, new confusion, chest pain, coughing up blood, or a rapidly worsening illness. Pneumonia commonly presents with cough, fever, chills, breathlessness or phlegm, but symptoms vary and examination may be needed.

Ask which pneumococcal vaccine is being offered, why it suits your medical history, whether another dose may be needed, and how it fits with influenza or other vaccinations. If your records are incomplete, ask the service to check available registries rather than guessing which product you previously received.