Indications
Pneumococcal vaccine protects against infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia, meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain), blood infection (bacteraemia) and ear and sinus infections. The polysaccharide vaccine is recommended for adults aged 65 years and over and for people aged 2 years and over who have a higher risk, such as those with long-term heart, lung, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, no spleen or a poorly working spleen, sickle cell disease, a weak immune system, cochlear implants or a leak of brain fluid. Conjugate pneumococcal vaccines are used for babies and young children and may also be used in adults.
How It Works
The vaccine contains purified sugar coatings (polysaccharides) from the outer surface of many types of pneumococcus. It contains no live bacteria and cannot cause infection. It teaches the immune system to make antibodies against these coatings, so the body can fight off the bacteria quickly if exposed later.
Dosage and Administration
It is given as a single injection into the muscle or under the skin by a doctor, nurse or trained vaccinator. Some high-risk people may need a booster after about 5 years, or a combined schedule with a conjugate vaccine, as decided by the doctor. The polysaccharide vaccine does not work well in children under 2 years. Where possible, it should be given at least 2 weeks before spleen removal or before starting treatment that weakens the immune system.
Interactions
- Medicines that suppress the immune system (high-dose steroids, cancer chemotherapy, radiotherapy, transplant medicines) may reduce the vaccine response.
- It can be given at the same visit as influenza and many other vaccines, at a different site.
- The timing with conjugate pneumococcal vaccine should follow the doctor’s schedule.
Contraindications
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any component of the vaccine.
- Vaccination should be delayed during a high fever or serious acute illness.
Side Effects
Common effects are pain, redness, warmth, swelling or hardness at the injection site, mild fever, tiredness, headache and muscle aches for 1 to 3 days. Local reactions may be stronger after a repeat dose.
Get urgent medical help if there is swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread hives, fainting or collapse after vaccination, or a very high fever.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It is generally not given during pregnancy unless the woman is at high risk and the doctor advises it. It can be given during breastfeeding if needed.
Precautions and Warnings
Given only by trained health workers where treatment for allergic reactions is available; wait 15 to 30 minutes afterwards. Use with care in people with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners. The vaccine does not protect against all types of pneumococcus or other causes of pneumonia. People with a weak immune system may respond less well.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely because the vaccine is given by health professionals as a single dose.
Therapeutic Class
Vaccine; bacterial polysaccharide vaccine (pneumococcal).
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Handled by the clinic or pharmacy as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.