What should you know about influenza and pneumonia vaccine?

Influenza is caused by flu viruses and can bring fever, cough, chills, headache and marked tiredness. Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs; bacteria, viruses and other organisms can cause it. The flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine are different products, so one does not replace the other. Protection depends on your age, health conditions, previous doses and the vaccine recommended locally. Vaccination cannot treat an infection that is already established.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist which vaccine schedule fits you, especially if you are older, pregnant, have a long-term condition, or have a weakened immune system. Tell them about allergies, previous vaccine reactions and current illness. After vaccination, a sore arm, mild temperature or fatigue can occur for a short time. Rest, drink fluids and follow the advice supplied with the vaccine. Continue practical infection precautions such as hand washing and staying home when unwell.

Seek urgent care for difficult breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent fever, dehydration, severe weakness, or a cough that is worsening after seeming to improve. Vaccination reduces risk but does not rule out influenza or pneumonia; symptoms still need assessment when they are severe or unusual.

Ask which vaccine is advised for your age and medical history, whether doses need spacing, and what to do if you feel unwell on the planned vaccination day.