Uses of undefined

Pneumococcal vaccine is used to protect against meningitis (inflammation around the brain and spinal cord), sepsis or bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream), pneumonia (lung infection), and ear infection caused by 13 different types of Streptococcus pneumonia bacteria. It makes the body produce antibodies to protect the body against the disease.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Pneumococcal vaccine injection is administered into a muscle or deep under the skin. If this injection is recommended for you, it will be given by a healthcare professional. Do not self-administrate. Your physician will choose the dosage and administration frequency based on the medical condition because it differs for each person. 

A second dose of the Pneumococcal vaccine is not usually given until at least three years after the first dose. Healthy people do not usually need a second dose; however, persons at increased risk of serious pneumococcal infection (such as those with no spleen or a spleen that does not work properly) may be suggested.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Do not take the Pneumococcal vaccine injection if you are allergic to the Pneumococcal vaccine or any other ingredients in this medicine or any other vaccine with diphtheria toxoid. Also, do not if you have a severe infection with a fever (over 38°C). Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor about present and past medical problems, breathing problems, bleeding, and bruising condition. Inform your doctor if you have a low resistance to the infection (weekend immune system or seizures. 

Precautions

Notify your doctor if your child is prematurely born (at or before 28 weeks of gestation). Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant or think you might be pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not self-administer. A well-trained doctor should inject a Pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumococcal infection occurs in anyone but is most likely to occur in people who are elder or with spleen function problems, or who have lost the spleen and have low resistance to infection due to prolonged illnesses or treatment. Seek the doctor’s advice before getting the injection.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of the Pneumococcal vaccine are swelling and hardening at the injection site, soreness, pain, redness.

Serious side effects while taking the Pneumococcal vaccine are difficulty in breathing, blue discoloration of lips or tongue, dizziness, fever, joint swelling, muscle pain, swelling of lips, tongue, throat, neck, hand, feet, or ankles, skin hives and rashes.

Word Of Advice

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.  Store the Pneumococcal vaccine in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Contact your doctor for more concerns. If you have missed any dosing appointments, inform your doctor and schedule immediately. 

• Which types of pneumonia will be protected by the Pneumonia vaccine?
• The Pneumonia vaccine prevents the most common bacterial strains that cause pneumonia, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. It does not protect against viral or other types of bacterial pneumonia.

• My mother is around 65 years old. Is she can get a Pneumococcal vaccine?
• Yes, it is generally recommended for individuals aged 65 and above to receive the Pneumococcal vaccine. The vaccine is particularly important for older adults as they are at an excesive risk of developing complications from pneumococcal pneumonia.

• Can I take up the Pneumococcal vaccine along with other injections?
• Yes, the pneumonia vaccine can typically be given alongside other injections.

• How long does the Pneumococcal vaccine work in my body?
• The Pneumococcal vaccine provides long-term protection, but the duration can vary among individuals. The vaccine offers protection for several years, and booster doses may be recommended in certain cases, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems.

• I already had the Pneumococcal vaccine for two years. Is that okay if I take up the vaccine again?
• Yes, getting another shot after a couple of years is totally alright. The Pneumococcal vaccine can protect against future infections and potentially prevent pneumonia-related complications.