Pneumonia Vaccine

The Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria may cause various types of illnesses, including ear and sinus infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. Complications caused by these illnesses can lead to hospitalization, severe complications, and, in extreme cases, even death.

Older adults over the age of 65 who suffer from chronic diseases are at a higher risk of contracting these illnesses; therefore, from the age of 65 and over, it is recommended to receive the vaccination for pneumococcus. It is worth knowing that, in light of the increased risk, you can get the vaccination without having to pay a copayment at HMOs.

Why is it recommended to get the vaccination for pneumococcus

The vaccination protects against the bacterial strains, some of which are antibiotic-resistant. After two or three weeks of receiving the vaccination, it starts protecting the body.

The vaccination helps avoid severe infections as well as pneumonia and meningitis complications, which can lead to disabilities and even death.

The vaccination is recommended for individuals who meet the following criteria:

1. Older adults over the age of 65.
2. Individuals over the age of 18 who are at a higher risk for Pneumococcal infections due to one or more of the following conditions:

• • They suffer from diabetes or other metabolic illnesses.
  • They suffer from acute and chronic cardiovascular illness.
  • They suffer from a chronic respiratory illness.
  • They suffer from a chronic renal illness.
  • They suffer from a chronic liver illness.
  • They have a malignant disease.
  • They are HIV carriers.
  • Patients who suffer from an impairment in the immune system or from a weakened immune system, such as patients without spleen, or those treated with a therapy that suppresses the immune system (steroids, chemotherapy).
  • Any other medical condition that increases the risk for Pneumococcal infections, according to a healthcare professional in this area of expertise.

Usually, the vaccination in these cases needs to be administered only once.

Potential side effects after receiving the vaccine for pneumococcus

Potential side effects after receiving the vaccination are usually mild and pass within one or two days.

Usually, side effects are aches, redness, or swelling at the injection site, as well as headaches, fever, or drowsiness. These side effects are treatable with simple measures, including cold compresses for swelling and painkillers for pain or fever.

Very rarely, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may appear after the vaccination. You will be required to wait at the clinic for 15 minutes, as the vaccination clinics have the appropriate equipment for treating such conditions. People who have previously developed severe allergic reactions will be asked to wait for half an hour.

Further information on side effects after vaccinations

The vaccine is available at all HMOs throughout the year.