Pneumococcal disease is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and can lead to serious infections including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Adults over 65, children under 2, and those with certain chronic health conditions are at the highest risk. Pneumococcal vaccines are a proven way to reduce your risk of these potentially life-threatening illnesses. Visit your local PharmaChoice pharmacy to find out which pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for you.
Find a PharmaChoice pharmacy near you offering pneumococcal vaccinations. Our pharmacists can help determine which vaccine is right for you based on your age and health history.
Get answers to your questions about pneumococcal vaccines, including the different types available, recommended schedules, and who benefits most from vaccination.
The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia (bloodstream infections) caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
There are two main types: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCV13, PCV20) and Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23). Your pharmacist can recommend the right one or sequence based on your health needs.
The vaccine is recommended for all adults 65 and older, individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease, and those who smoke or are immunocompromised.
Some individuals may benefit from both PCV and PPSV vaccines administered in sequence. Your pharmacist will review your immunization history to determine the right approach.
Protection from the pneumococcal vaccine can last many years. Most healthy adults only need one or two lifetime doses, but your pharmacist can advise based on your individual health profile.
Common side effects include mild soreness, redness at the injection site, and low-grade fever. These typically resolve within a day or two.
Browse our Advice For Life blog for helpful articles on pneumococcal disease, who is at risk, and how vaccination can reduce your chances of serious illness.
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