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
- Adults aged 65 years and over under the current programme
- People aged 2 years and over in specified clinical-risk groups
- People with severe immunosuppression or impaired splenic function after clinical assessment
Dose schedules
The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.
Risk-based dose
Eligible adults and clinical-risk groups
Who may be eligible
- People meeting current age- or risk-based UKHSA criteria
- People for whom PCV20 is appropriate after review of previous pneumococcal vaccination
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