Protection Against Serious Respiratory Infections
At Eric Moore Partnership Medical Practice, we offer pneumococcal vaccinations to safeguard our patients against infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. This vaccination is especially important for individuals over 65 and those with specific health conditions that put them at higher risk. By reducing the chances of severe infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections, the pneumococcal vaccine helps protect your health and supports a stronger immune system.
What is the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
The pneumococcal vaccine is an immunisation that protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacteria responsible for serious respiratory infections. Pneumococcal infections can be life-threatening, especially in older adults and people with certain health conditions, making this vaccine a key preventive measure. The vaccine is available in two main types:
- Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) – Usually administered to children but can also be given to adults with specific needs.
- Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPV) – Recommended for adults over 65 and high-risk patients, providing protection against multiple strains of pneumococcal bacteria.
Our team will guide you on the best option based on your age, health, and risk factors.
Who Should Get the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for:
- Individuals Aged 65 and Older – As we age, our immune system may weaken, making it harder to fight off infections. The pneumococcal vaccine offers crucial protection against infections that can lead to severe complications.
- At-Risk Patients of Any Age – Individuals with specific health conditions may also benefit from the vaccine, including those with:
- Chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD)
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney or liver disease
- Weakened immune systems (e.g., due to cancer treatments or HIV)
- Spleen dysfunction or removal
Our practice encourages anyone within these groups to consider pneumococcal vaccination to protect their health.
Benefits of Pneumococcal Vaccination
The pneumococcal vaccine provides several important benefits, including:
- Reduced Risk of Serious Infections – The vaccine lowers the chances of developing life-threatening conditions like pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
- Hospitalisation Prevention – By reducing the risk of severe infections, the vaccine also lowers the likelihood of hospitalisation due to pneumococcal disease.
- Increased Immunity with Age – As our immune system naturally weakens with age, the pneumococcal vaccine acts as an added line of defense, helping your body fight off infection.
- Protection of At-Risk Individuals – Those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems gain additional protection, improving overall quality of life and health outcomes.
The Vaccination Process: What to Expect
The pneumococcal vaccination is a simple, quick process that can be administered during a standard appointment at our practice. Here is what you can expect:
- Consultation – We will review your medical history and discuss any current health conditions to ensure the pneumococcal vaccine is the right choice for you.
- Administration – The vaccine is given as a single injection, typically in the upper arm. It is quick and causes minimal discomfort.
- Aftercare – Most patients experience little to no side effects. Common reactions may include mild soreness at the injection site, slight fever, or muscle aches, which resolve within a day or two.
The vaccine is typically administered once for adults over 65 or at-risk individuals, with some cases requiring a booster. We will advise on any further doses, if necessary, based on your health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a pneumococcal vaccine every year?
No, the pneumococcal vaccine is not given annually. For most people over 65, a single dose provides long-term protection, though some high-risk patients may need a booster dose, depending on individual circumstances.
Is it safe to get the pneumococcal vaccine with other vaccinations?
Yes, the pneumococcal vaccine can often be given alongside other vaccines, such as the flu vaccine. Our team will advise you on the safest schedule for any recommended vaccinations.
What if I have already had pneumonia?
Even if you have previously had pneumonia, the vaccine can still offer valuable protection against other strains of pneumococcal bacteria and help prevent future infections.
Protect Your Health – Book Your Pneumococcal Vaccination
Pneumococcal vaccination is an important preventive measure, particularly for older adults and those with certain health risks. Eric Moore Partnership Medical Practice is here to provide safe, convenient vaccination services, helping you stay protected and healthy.
Contact us today to schedule your pneumococcal vaccination appointment and take a proactive step in safeguarding your health.