Pneumococcal Vaccine Factsheet – Information for Patients, Parents and Carers 

Pneumococcal disease can affect people of any age, but serious illness is more common in young children, older adults and people with certain medical conditions or weakened immune systems.  

Vaccination is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect people who are at increased risk of serious pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal vaccines have been used in the UK for decades and have been rigorously assessed for safety, quality and effectiveness. Their safety continues to be monitored through the Yellow Card scheme.  

This factsheet is designed to help patients, parents and carers understand pneumococcal vaccines authorised and used in the UK. It covers: 

• Overview of pneumococcal disease 
• Pneumococcal vaccination and eligibility 
• Types of pneumococcal vaccine available in the UK 
• Getting the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations 
• Safety and effectiveness of pneumococcal vaccines 
• Pneumococcal vaccine side effects 
• Pneumococcal vaccination and pregnancy 
• Who should not receive the pneumococcal vaccine 
• Report side effects to the Yellow Card scheme