What’s the pneumococcal vaccine for?
The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against some types of bacterial infections that can cause serious illnesses, including:
- Meningitis (an infection in the brain and spinal cord)
- Sepsis (a life-threatening reaction to an infection)
- Pneumonia (an infection in the lungs).
It can also help protect against other illnesses such as sinusitis and ear infections.
Who should have the pneumococcal vaccine and when should it be given?
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for babies, older people, and people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from pneumococcal infections.
| Who should have it | How many doses |
| Babies | 1st dose at 12 weeks and a booster dose at 1 year |
| People aged 65 and over | 1 dose when you’re 65 |
| Children and adults at higher risk of getting seriously ill | At least 1 dose (some people may need extra doses or regular doses) |
You are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from pneumococcal infections if you have:
- sickle cell disease, coeliac disease, problems with your spleen or you’ve had your spleen removed
- a long-term condition that affects your breathing such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis
- a long-term condition that affects your heart such as coronary heart disease or heart failure
- chronic kidney disease
- a long-term condition that affects your liver such as cirrhosis
- diabetes
- a weakened immune system due to a condition such as HIV, or a treatment such as steroid medicine or chemotherapy
- a condition where fluid that protects the brain and spinal cord leaks out (cerebrospinal fluid leaks)
- cochlear implants
Some welders and metal workers who are exposed to metal fumes at work should also have the vaccine. Check with your employer if you think you may need it.
How to get the pneumococcal vaccine
Your GP surgery will usually contact you if you or your child are eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine.
If you are a welder or metal worker, speak to your employer about getting the vaccine.
Visit the NHS website for more information on the pneumococcal vaccine.