​How does pneumococcal infection affect me?

• It can cause infection of the blood, brain, chest or other parts of the body.
• Older people are more likely to get the infection, and be more unwell.
• Up to 3 in 10 people with a pneumococcal brain infection will die.

How does the pneumococcal vaccine help?

• ​Getting the vaccine means you are less likely to have the serious blood, brain and chest infections.

What are the different pneumococcal vaccines?

• There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines – the brand names are:
• ​Prevenar, and 
• Pneumovax.
• Most older people will only require one dose of Prevenar. However, some people at higher risk of disease will also require further doses of Pneumovax. 
  

When can I get the pneumococcal vaccine?

• 70 years old and older: 1 dose of Prevenar
• Ask your doctor if you also need Pneumovax (2 doses).

What are common side effects of the pneumococcal vaccine?

• About 1 in 5 people will have swelling, redness or pain at the injection site or fever – these  side effects go away after 2-3 days.
• A small lump can develop at the injection site and may last for a few weeks or months – this does not need treatment.​
  
• Paracetamol can help with the pain and fever.

Where can I get more information?

• Speak to your GP.
• Pneumococcal vaccines – frequently asked questions (FAQs) | NCIRS