Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccine helps prevent against pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal infections is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, or pneumococcus. Infections can range from ear and sinus infections to pneumonia and bloodstream infections.

Symptoms are largely dependent on the part of the body that is infected. Most infections symptoms are mild. However, some can be deadly or result in long-term health problems. 

People at high risk of developing serious complications from pneumococcal disease such as infants, elderly and those with pre-existing chronic conditions should receive the vaccine to reduce their risk of infection.