IT'S NOT JUST THE 65 AND OVERS WHO NEED TO KNOW

ABOUT PNEUMOCOCCAL DISEASE.

What is pneumococcal disease?

Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by bacteria that can live harmslessly in the back of the nose and throat.

Sometimes these bacteria move to other parts of the body and cuase serious illnesses like pheumonia, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis.

Am I at risk?

The Department of Health recommends pneumococcal vaccination for infants (as part of a routine childhood immunisation programme), those aged 65 and over, and those aged two months and over with any of the conditions listed below:

Asplenia or dysfunction of the spleen

Chronic respiratory disease

Chronic heart disease

Chronic renal disease

Certain liver disease

Immunosuppression  (weak immune system)

Cochlear implants

Cerebrospinal fluid leaks

How can vaccination help me?

Pneumoccocal vaccination can help your immune system prevent an infection developing and the complications associated with this.

For further Information on your vaccination needs, you should contact your GP.