Pneumococcal vaccine
Updated: 03.08.2023
Approved by: General Practitioner, Alice Pan
Pneumococci is a type of bacteria that most frequently cause infections such as pneumonia, ear infections, and sinus infections, but also more serious illnesses such as blood poisoning and meningitis. The infection can affect people of all ages, but the youngest and oldest, as well as people with other underlying illnesses, are especially vulnerable. Transmission occurs through close droplet transmission (such as coughing, sneezing, and the like) from person to person. Both carriers and clinically ill people can be a source for the spread of infection.
Symptoms
The symptoms will vary depending on where the infection has settled.
The most common localization is in the lungs. This will cause symptoms with:
- High fever
- Stinging chest pain
- Reap
- Heavy breath
Treatment
Penicillin is the first choice of treatment when it comes to pneumonia.
Those who develop severe pneumococcal disease are hospitalized, often in the intensive care unit, and the mortality rate is high.
How to prevent pneumococci?
The most effective preventive measure is vaccination.
Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for:
- All persons over the age of 65.
- People who use medication or have a disease that weakens the immune system. The vaccine is also recommended for people at risk of developing serious disease.
- Professional groups with a higher risk of infection, e.g. laboratory personnel.
