Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumococcal Vaccine for Travel

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection most commonly caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It affects the air sacs in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as coughing, fever, chest pain and difficulty breathing. The infection is more prevalent during the winter months and can be particularly dangerous for older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions. Vaccination is available and recommended for individuals at higher risk of complications.

Vaccination Pricing

£79 per course

Signs & Symptoms

  • Cough (often with phlegm)

  • Fever and chills

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fatigue

  • Confusion

Hawne Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 0121 501 3518

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

177 Stourbridge Rd, Halesowen, B63 3UD

Bills Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01384 872117

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

29 High St, Kinver, Stourbridge, DY7 6HF

Millard and Bullock Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01902 883 182

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Castle Street, Bilston, WV14 9DD

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Boost required at
2 years and older 1 N/A N/A

Pneumococcal disease refers to a range of infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. This bacterium can affect various parts of the body and is responsible for several serious illnesses, including pneumonia (lung infection), meningitis (infection of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord), and septicaemia (blood poisoning). It can also cause milder conditions such as sinusitis and middle ear infections. While many people carry S. pneumoniae harmlessly in their nose or throat, particularly young children, it can become invasive and life-threatening when it spreads to other areas of the body. The risk is particularly high in babies, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory illnesses. Because pneumococcal infections can develop rapidly and lead to serious complications, prevention through vaccination plays a critical role in public health strategies.

Pneumococcal bacteria spread from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through close contact, such as kissing or touching surfaces contaminated with respiratory secretions. While not everyone who carries the bacteria becomes ill, they can still transmit it to others, making it especially dangerous in environments such as care homes, nurseries, and hospitals. The most effective way to prevent pneumococcal disease is through vaccination. The NHS offers two main types of pneumococcal vaccines: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), primarily given to infants and young children, and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV), offered to adults over 65 and those in high-risk groups. Practising good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, also helps reduce the spread of infection. Smoking cessation and managing chronic health conditions can further decrease your risk.

The symptoms of pneumococcal disease vary depending on the type of infection it causes. In cases of pneumonia, the most common form, symptoms often include a high fever, chest pain, persistent cough (sometimes with mucus), shortness of breath, and fatigue. Meningitis caused by the pneumococcus bacterium may lead to neck stiffness, severe headache, sensitivity to light, confusion, and in some cases, seizures or unconsciousness. Septicaemia can present with fever, rapid breathing, cold extremities, and a mottled or blotchy skin appearance. Milder infections, such as sinusitis or middle ear infections, may cause earache, nasal congestion, or facial pressure. In young children and babies, symptoms can be more difficult to recognise and may include irritability, poor feeding, vomiting, or sleepiness. Pneumococcal infections can develop quickly and require urgent medical attention, especially in vulnerable individuals.

The duration of protection offered by pneumococcal vaccines depends on the type received. The PCV (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine), given as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule in the UK, provides long-lasting immunity and typically does not require a booster in healthy individuals. The PPV (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine), offered to adults aged 65 and over as well as those in clinical risk groups, generally provides protection for around 5 to 10 years. In most cases, a single dose is sufficient for healthy older adults. However, people with ongoing health conditions or weakened immune systems may be advised to have a booster dose every five years. The vaccines protect against the most common and dangerous strains of S. pneumoniae, significantly reducing the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation, and death. It is important to follow NHS guidance and consult with a healthcare provider if you are unsure whether you are due for vaccination or a booster.

Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended not only based on age or health status but also for certain travellers, especially those visiting countries where access to healthcare is limited or where pneumococcal disease is more prevalent. While there are no countries that strictly require pneumococcal vaccination for entry, it is advised for individuals travelling to parts of Africa, Asia, or Latin America, particularly if they will be staying for extended periods, volunteering in healthcare settings, or living in close-contact environments such as refugee camps or care facilities. Older adults and those with chronic illnesses planning international travel should ensure their vaccinations are up to date before departure. Because pneumococcal infections can occur anywhere and are more severe in high-risk individuals, vaccination provides valuable protection regardless of the destination.

Pneumococcal vaccines are generally very safe and well tolerated. Most side effects are mild and temporary. Common side effects include redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site, along with a low-grade fever or irritability in children. These symptoms typically resolve within a day or two. Some adults may experience muscle aches, fatigue, or a mild headache. Serious allergic reactions to the vaccine are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination—especially for those at higher risk—far outweigh the potential for side effects. The vaccine does not contain live bacteria, so it cannot cause pneumococcal disease. As with all immunisations, it is important to let your healthcare provider know if you have had any allergic reactions to vaccines in the past or if you are feeling unwell on the day of your appointment. For most people, the vaccine offers safe, effective, and long-lasting protection against a potentially life-threatening group of infections.

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The West Midlands Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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