What should you know about the pneumonia shot?

Pneumococcal bacteria can cause pneumonia and can also infect the bloodstream or the lining around the brain. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise selected pneumococcal types. Protection depends on the vaccine used, your age, health conditions, previous doses, and local recommendations.

A vaccinated person can still develop pneumonia from another bacterium, a virus such as Influenza or COVID-19, or another cause. A new cough, fever, chills, or coughing up phlegm should therefore be assessed on its own merits.

Ask a clinician to review your vaccination history and medical background. Mention conditions affecting the heart, lungs, kidneys, or immune system, cigarette exposure, a previous spleen operation, pregnancy, and any serious reaction to a vaccine. Do not restart or repeat a schedule without checking which product and dose you previously received.

After vaccination, soreness, redness, tiredness, or a mild temperature can occur for a short time. Rest, drink fluids, and use only medicines that are suitable for you. Keep a record of the vaccine name and date.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, fainting, widespread hives, or sudden severe weakness soon after vaccination. Seek prompt medical assessment for chest pain, confusion, blue lips, persistent vomiting, or rapidly worsening breathing during a respiratory illness, because serious pneumonia or Sepsis needs urgent attention.

Ask which pneumococcal vaccine is appropriate for you, whether a previous dose changes the plan, what reactions should be expected, and how this vaccine fits with Influenza vaccination.