Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumococcal Vaccine – Essential Protection for Your Health and Your Loved Ones

Good health is the greatest gift we can give ourselves and those we care about. One silent threat that should not be overlooked is pneumonia, caused by infection with pneumococcal bacteria, which can lead to serious complications, especially among high-risk groups such as older adults and people with chronic medical conditions.

The good news is that this disease can be prevented with the pneumococcal vaccine, which helps reduce the risk of infection and prevents potential complications.

What is the pneumococcal vaccine?

The pneumococcal vaccine stimulates the immune system to fight pneumococcal bacteria – the main cause of pneumonia, otitis media, and sinusitis. Vaccination is an effective preventive measure, especially for those at higher risk of severe illness.

How many types of pneumococcal vaccine are there?

Currently, there are two types of pneumococcal vaccine:

🔹 13-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV13)
Protects against 13 strains of pneumococcal bacteria and provides strong, long-lasting immunity.

🔹 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)
Covers up to 23 strains of pneumococcus. Although the immunity it provides may not last as long as PCV13, it is still effective in reducing disease severity.

The choice of vaccine depends on age and health condition, and should be determined by a doctor’s advice.

Who should receive the pneumococcal vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for the following high-risk groups:

✅ Adults aged 65 years and over
✅ People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or chronic liver disease
✅ Individuals with weakened immune systems
✅ People without a spleen, or with impaired spleen function
✅ Regular smokers or heavy drinkers

Vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious complications and hospitalisation.

How many doses are required?

💉 Adults aged 65 years and over
It is recommended to receive PCV13, followed by PPSV23 at least one year later.

💉 Adults aged 18–64 with chronic conditions
It is recommended to receive PCV13, and PPSV23 may be considered at least one year later.

💉 Individuals with compromised immunity
It is recommended to receive PCV13, followed by PPSV23 eight weeks later, and another dose of PPSV23 at least five years after the previous one.

Possible side effects of the pneumococcal vaccine

In general, the vaccine is safe, but mild side effects may occur, such as:

🔸 Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
🔸 Fatigue, fever, or headache
🔸 Loss of appetite or muscle aches

These symptoms usually resolve on their own within 2–3 days. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

Precautions

❌ PCV13 and PPSV23 should not be administered on the same day
❌ People with a history of allergy to diphtheria toxoid should not receive PCV
❌ There is not yet enough safety data for use in pregnant women