Pneumococcal - vaccination
Pneumococcal vaccine The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis. It's recommended for people at higher risk of these illnesses, such as babies and adults aged 65 and over.
What the pneumococcal vaccine is for
The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against some types of bacterial infections that can cause serious illnesses like:
meningitis (an infection in the brain and spinal cord)
sepsis (a life-threatening reaction to an infection)
pneumonia (an infection in the lungs)
Some types of pneumococcal vaccine can also help protect against other illnesses such as sinusitis and ear infections.
How to get the pneumococcal vaccine on the NHS
Your GP surgery will usually contact you if you or your child are eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine. This will usually be by letter, text, phone call or email.