Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae which mostly lives harmlessly in the back of the nose and throat.
The bacteria are present in tiny droplets that are expelled when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. If you breathe in these droplets, you may also be infected. You can also become infected by touching any droplets that might have landed on a surface such as a table, and then transferring them to your face.
Once the bacteria have entered your body they can either lie dormant (which means they do not cause you any harm, but they could still be passed onto someone else), or they can multiply and cause health problems such as pneumonia, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis.
Are you: Aged 65 years or over
Do you have any of the following conditions:
- Diabetes (controlled by medication)
- Immunosuppression
- Asplenia (or dysfunction of the spleen)
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- Chronic Respiratory Disease
- Chronic Liver Disease
- Chronic Heart Disease
- Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks
- Cochlear Implants
- Occupational Exposure to Metal Fumes
If you are in any of the above categories it is recommended that you receive a Pneumococcal vaccination.
Pneumococcal vaccinations will be offered at the same time as the flu vaccination. It’s a simple and safe vaccine that can prevent pneumococcal infections.
If you would like any further information please contact the surgery.