Prevnar pneumonia vaccine

Pneumococcal bacteria can infect the lungs, blood or tissues around the brain. Prevnar presents selected bacterial components to the immune system so it can respond more effectively later. It does not prevent every type of pneumonia: illnesses caused by viruses such as Influenza or COVID-19 need different preventive measures.

The recommended product, dose timing and need for additional vaccination depend on age, health conditions and previous vaccines. A sore arm, tiredness or a mild fever can occur after vaccination and usually settles without special treatment.

Ask a healthcare professional to review your vaccine record and medical history, particularly if you have a long-term lung condition, reduced immunity or another condition that raises infection risk. Keep the appointment information and report a previous severe vaccine reaction. Vaccination complements hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with ill people and prompt assessment of respiratory symptoms.

A vaccine cannot treat an infection that is already developing. Seek same-day medical advice for fever, chills, worsening cough or coughing up phlegm, especially with breathlessness or chest pain. Emergency help is needed for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion, fainting or signs of sepsis. Learn more about Pneumonia.

Ask which pneumococcal vaccine is suitable, when it should be given, and whether another vaccine or a health condition affects the schedule. Ask how to distinguish expected post-vaccine effects from symptoms of an infection and where to seek help if breathing worsens.