doctor getting jag ready for happy older patient

Some adults carry pneumococcal bacteria in the back of their nose and throat and can pass them around by coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Usually, this doesn’t result in serious illness but it can lead to pneumococcal infection, including pneumococcal meningitis.

Pneumococcal vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine is usually only given once. The vaccine doesn't protect against all types of pneumococcal infection and doesn't protect against meningitis caused by other bacteria or viruses but can prevent those who have have a higher chance of becoming unwell with pneumococcal infection from catching the virus or from suffering its most serious effects.

The pneumococcal vaccine is available in Fife for all people aged 65 years and over and those under 65 who fall into a risk group or have a serious medical condition. If you have not been invited for a vaccine and think you may be eligible, you can contact us.