What should you know about pneumococcal vaccine?

Pneumococcal bacteria can cause infections such as Pneumonia, bloodstream infection and meningitis. Vaccination presents the immune system with information that helps it respond more quickly if it later encounters covered pneumococcal types. Protection is not the same as treatment for an illness already underway, and vaccination does not prevent every cause of cough or chest infection. Eligibility and the recommended product or schedule depend on age, previous doses and health conditions.

Ask a clinician to review your vaccination history and explain whether pneumococcal vaccination is advised for you. Tell them about serious allergies, pregnancy, immune problems, long-term conditions and any current illness. After vaccination, a sore arm, mild fever or tiredness can occur. Follow the clinic's aftercare advice and keep a record of the dose so future recommendations are accurate. The Pneumococcal Vaccination page has further practical detail.

Seek urgent help after vaccination for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse or severe weakness. For a separate illness, urgent assessment is needed for severe breathlessness, confusion, blue lips or rapidly worsening symptoms. A vaccine appointment should not replace assessment of a suspected active infection.

Ask which vaccine is suitable, whether you need more than one dose, how previous vaccination changes the plan, and which side effects are expected. Ask whether your health conditions or medicines alter the timing.