A brief history
Pneumococcus was isolated in 1881. Research into its different strains eventually led to vaccines covering several serotypes, followed by conjugate vaccines designed to improve the immune response.
How does it spread?
The bacteria can live in the nose or throat without symptoms and spread through respiratory secretions. Carriage does not necessarily mean someone has invasive disease.
Symptoms and possible complications
Infection can cause pneumonia, ear infections, meningitis or bloodstream infection. Young children, older adults and people with certain health conditions are at greater risk. Vaccines cover selected pneumococcal strains, not every cause of pneumonia.
Where it may be relevant
- Children following the routine programme
- People with specified medical risk factors
- Those needing specialist catch-up or risk-based vaccination
Dose schedules
The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.
Age- and risk-based course
Eligible people
Current UK products and schedules have changed; confirm against the latest UKHSA guidance.
Who may be eligible
- People meeting current age or clinical-risk recommendations
- Schedule and product determined by age, health and previous pneumococcal doses
Who may not be eligible
- Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
- People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
Potential side effects
- Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
- Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
- Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
Important risks and precautions
- A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
- Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
- The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment
Clinical references