Pneumococcal vaccination: who is offered it, when and what to expect

Pneumococcal disease is the term used for infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, often called pneumococcus. The UK Health Security Agency uses that definition in its Green Book chapter, the reference document for immunisation professionals. The bacteria can cause illness in several parts of the body, and the vaccine is designed to prevent the serious forms.

The NHS lists three that matter most: meningitis, an infection of the brain and spinal cord; sepsis, a life-threatening reaction to infection; and pneumonia, an infection of the lungs. It adds that some types of the vaccine can also help protect against sinusitis and ear infections. The NHS pneumonia page notes that the pneumococcal vaccine is one of several, alongside the flu, RSV and Covid-19 vaccines, that reduce the risk of infections that can cause pneumonia.

The NHS recommends the vaccine for babies, for older people and for people at higher risk of becoming seriously ill from pneumococcal infection. The table sets out the schedule it gives. NHS inform, the Scottish health information service, gives the baby schedule as 16 weeks and again between 12 and 13 months, and says it is offered to all older adults after they turn 65.

If you or your child have missed a vaccination, the NHS says to contact your GP surgery. A child can still have the vaccine up until they turn 2 years old. Your GP surgery will usually contact you if you are eligible, by letter, text, phone call or email.

The NHS says you are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from pneumococcal infection if you have any of the following. People in these groups can be offered the vaccine before they turn 65, and some need more than one dose.

• Sickle cell disease, problems with your spleen, or a spleen that has been removed.

• A long-term condition affecting breathing, such as COPD or cystic fibrosis.

• A long-term heart condition, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure.

• Chronic kidney disease, or a long-term liver condition such as cirrhosis.

• Diabetes.

• A weakened immune system because of a condition such as HIV, or a treatment such as steroid medicine or chemotherapy.

• Cerebrospinal fluid leaks or cochlear implants.

• Some welders and metal workers exposed to metal fumes at work; the NHS says employers should make sure they are offered the vaccine.

The NHS says there are two types of pneumococcal vaccine given in the UK. Prevenar 20 is usually given to adults and to children over 2, and Prevenar 13 is usually given to babies under 2. The patient leaflets list the ingredients. The UKHSA Green Book chapter was most recently updated in August 2026 following approval of a further vaccine, Capvaxive (PCV21), and advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation on people experiencing homelessness, so the products and risk groups in use can change.

You can have the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, according to the NHS.

The most common side effects are swelling or pain where the injection was given, a high temperature, feeling tired and loss of appetite. Babies and children may also feel a little unwell and irritable, and the NHS says paracetamol or ibuprofen for children can ease symptoms. It advises asking for an urgent GP appointment or calling 111 if a baby aged 3 to 6 months has a temperature of 39C or higher, has a seizure, or is unwell and you are worried.

A severe allergic reaction is very rare and usually happens within minutes, and the person vaccinating you is trained to treat it. The NHS says most people can have the vaccine, including if pregnant or breastfeeding. You cannot have it only if you have had anaphylaxis after a previous dose or an ingredient. If you or your child have a high temperature or feel too unwell for normal activities, wait until you are better.

The NHS says vaccination gives the best protection against pneumococcal infection and helps protect against the most common types, but there is still a chance of getting a pneumococcal infection. You usually have some protection by about 2 to 3 weeks after the vaccine. Most adults need only one dose for long-term protection, and most babies need two.

In practice this means the vaccine reduces risk rather than removing it. Anyone with symptoms of pneumonia, such as a persistent cough, shortness of breath, a high temperature or confusion, should still seek advice whatever their vaccination status.