Pneumococcal
Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can be especially serious for young children and older people.
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect you from pneumococcal disease. There are 2 types of pneumococcal vaccine provided free under the National Immunisation Program for different age groups and circumstances.
Cause of pneumococcal
Pneumococcal disease is caused by the Streptococcus pneumonia bacterium. It is spread by coughing, sneezing or touching contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of pneumococcal
Symptoms vary based on the type of infection you have and your age. It can include:
- respiratory symptoms
- difficulty breathing
- ear pain
- fever
- nausea and vomiting
- headaches
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- blood-stained mucus
- light sensitivity
- poor appetite
- confusion
- irritability
- drowsiness
- skin rash.
Pneumococcal complications
Pneumococcal disease can be life-threatening. It can lead to pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis (inflammation around the brain).
Pneumococcal immunisation
Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for:
- infants and young children
- adults over 70 years old
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over 50 years old
- people with risk conditions for pneumococcal disease.
How often do you need the pneumococcal vaccine?
For different age groups and circumstances, the following pneumococcal vaccine doses are recommended:
- all children at 2, 4 and 12 months of age (3 doses in total)
- an extra dose at 6 months for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in addition to the 3 doses for all children (4 doses in total)
- all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years or over (3 doses in total)
- all non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 70 years or over (1 dose)
- Individuals with specified medically at risk conditions will require extra doses. Your immunisation provider will advise you if you need more doses. See also Immunisation for people with medical conditions.
Refugees and other humanitarian entrants of any age, as well as eligible people under 20 years old, can get a free
catch-up vaccination. This catch-up vaccination is if they did not receive the vaccines in childhood and it is recommended to receive the vaccine
.
Refer to the WA Immunisation Schedule for detailed information including timings or speak to a health professional.
Where can you get the pneumococcal vaccine?
In WA, you can book a vaccine appointment at a range of health services. It's a good idea to check your or your child's immunisation history before you book an appointment.
The pneumococcal vaccine is available through:
More information
Find more information about pneumococcal including where to get vaccinated in WA.
