Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause moderate to severe illness. Despite advances in modern medicine, it still accounts for approximately 5% of deaths in Ireland with the people most at-risk being older people and very young children. Common symptoms of pneumonia include a persistent cough, fever and difficulty breathing.

Pneumonia can be caused by a variety of different microorganisms, by breathing in corrosive chemicals or by inhalation of toxic gases. Transmission usually requires close contact and person-to person transmission usually by droplet infection. The incubation period can vary but can be as short as 1-3 days.

What is the Pneumococcal Vaccine and how does it work?

• A common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus).
• Pneumococcal infections can cause a range of illness from mild ear and sinus infections to more severe pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
• Children under 2 years old and adults 65 years or older are among those most at risk of the disease.
• There are two types of pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumovax® is the type administered by your pharmacist and they can advise you if the vaccine is appropriate for you or they might refer you to your GP if necessary.
• The pharmacy vaccine protects against 23 types of pneumococcal disease in children and adults.
• The Pneumococcal Vaccine encourages your body to produce antibodies against pneumococcal bacteria. Antibodies are proteins produced by the body to prevent disease. They protect you from becoming ill, if you get an infection.

How do I avail of the Pneumococcal Vaccine?

To avail of a vaccination service, simply phone or call in to your nearest Life pharmacy and a member of the pharmacy team will check your eligibility and arrange an appointment for a time that is convenient for you.

When should I get the vaccination?