The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis. It’s recommended for babies, adults aged 65 and over, and people at higher risk of these illnesses. The vaccine helps protect against some types of bacterial infections that can cause serious illnesses like meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia. It can also help protect against other illnesses such as sinusitis and ear infections. You usually have some protection by about 3 weeks from when you have the vaccine.
Babies are normally given 2 doses of the vaccine, the first at 16 weeks and a booster dose at 1 year.
Patients aged 65 and over receive 1 dose of the vaccine. Children and adults at higher risk of getting seriously ill should have 1 dose, although some people may need extra doses or regular doses of the vaccine.
You can get the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, such as the flu vaccine.
You don’t need to contact the practice to arrange a pneumococcal vaccination. Our admin team will invite you when you become eligible, normally during the month of your birth. If you think you’re eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine and have not been contacted, please get in touch with the surgery.
Further information can be found at www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/pneumococcal-vaccine.
