Pneumococcal infections
Pneumococcal infection is caused by pneumococcal bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and can cause serious illnesses, such as sepsis and meningitis.
Pneumococcal (Streptococcus pneumoniae) infection is one of the most common causes of meningitis (an infection of the lining of the brain). It also causes ear infections (otitis media), pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and some other serious illnesses.
People aged 65 or over and individuals with certain health conditions have a higher chance of becoming unwell with pneumococcal infection. They are more likely to suffer serious long-term health problems from pneumococcal infection and can even die. These groups are offered a pneumococcal vaccination on the NHS. It’s a safe vaccine that can help prevent some of the serious types of pneumococcal infections.
Some individuals carry pneumococcal bacteria in the back of their nose and throat and can pass them around by coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Up to 60% of children carry pneumococcal bacteria in the back of their nose and throat. Usually, this doesn’t result in serious illness, but it can lead to pneumococcal infection, including pneumococcal meningitis.
Learn more
If you would like to learn more about the vaccines, or the diseases they protect against a number of information resources are available to help below.
You can also call NHS 111 or your GP practice for advice if you have any questions.
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