Travel vaccine
Pneumococcal
A vaccine that protects against pneumococcal bacteria, a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections.
What pneumococcal disease is
Pneumococcal infections are caused by a type of bacteria that can lead to pneumonia, meningitis and serious blood infections. The same bacteria are also behind many ear and sinus infections. While healthy adults often shake off milder forms, the more invasive infections can be dangerous, especially for older people and those with certain long-term conditions.
How the vaccine protects you
The pneumococcal vaccine prompts your immune system to defend against the most common and harmful strains of the bacteria. For most adults a single dose provides solid protection, although the exact vaccine and whether you need more than one dose depends on your age and medical history.
Who should consider it
Protection is particularly valuable if you are older or live with a heart, lung, kidney, liver or immune condition. If that applies to you, it is worth a conversation, and we can also check whether you qualify for pneumococcal vaccination on the NHS.
Speak to our team
To find out whether pneumococcal vaccination is right for you, contact Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road. Call 01270 215837 or call in during pharmacy opening hours and we will be glad to advise.
How it spreads
Spread person to person through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, and via close contact with carriers.
Who should be vaccinated
Older adults and people with long-term heart, lung, liver, kidney or immune conditions, as well as others at higher risk of serious infection.
Vaccination schedule
Usually a single dose for adults, with the type of vaccine chosen to suit your age and health.
Boosters
Most adults need only one dose, though a further dose may be advised for certain medical conditions.
Possible side effects
Redness or soreness where the injection is given, a mild fever and aching for a short while.
Pneumococcal — frequently asked questions
Who needs the pneumococcal vaccine in Crewe?
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for older adults and anyone with a long-term heart, lung, liver, kidney or immune condition, as these groups are most at risk of serious infection. It is also worth considering if you have had your spleen removed or have a cochlear implant. Our Crewe team can check whether it suits your health and circumstances.
How many doses of the pneumococcal vaccine do I need?
Most adults need only a single dose of the pneumococcal vaccine for solid, lasting protection. The exact vaccine type is chosen to suit your age and medical history. A small number of people with particular conditions, such as those affecting the immune system, may be advised to have a further dose, which we can discuss with you.
How long does pneumococcal vaccine protection last?
For most healthy adults, a single dose of the pneumococcal vaccine offers long-term protection and no routine booster is needed. People with certain medical conditions that weaken the immune response may be advised to have a further dose after a number of years. We can review your history and let you know whether ongoing cover applies to you.
What are the common side effects of the pneumococcal vaccine?
The most common side effects are mild and short-lived: redness or soreness where the injection was given, a slightly raised temperature and some aching. These usually settle within a day or two without any treatment. Serious reactions are rare. If anything concerns you after your appointment, you are welcome to call us on 01270 215837 for advice.
Is the pneumococcal vaccine free on the NHS or private?
Some people qualify for pneumococcal vaccination free on the NHS, particularly older adults and those with certain medical conditions. If you are not eligible, we can offer it privately at Crewe Pharmacy. When you contact us, we will first check whether you can have it on the NHS, then explain the private option if it is more suitable for you.
How much does the pneumococcal vaccine cost at Crewe Pharmacy?
The price for the pneumococcal vaccine is available on enquiry, as the exact vaccine and any individual requirements can affect what you need. Please call 01270 215837 or visit us at 139-141 Nantwich Road and our team will confirm the cost for you. We will also check first whether you qualify for free NHS vaccination.
How is pneumococcal disease spread?
Pneumococcal bacteria spread from person to person through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes, and through close contact with carriers who may have no symptoms. The bacteria can then cause pneumonia, meningitis, blood infections and common ear or sinus infections. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce your risk of the more serious, invasive forms.
Can I get the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
Yes, the pneumococcal vaccine can usually be given at the same appointment as other vaccines, such as your flu or RSV vaccine, often in a different arm. This is a convenient way to top up your protection before winter. When you book, let our team know which vaccines you are interested in and we will arrange them together where suitable.