Pneumococcal Vaccine (PPV)
PPV is a vaccine designed to protect against infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae.
This bacterium can lead to various illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, septicaemia, and other respiratory and invasive diseases.
Price per dose
NHS – 18+ years
£29.99
Privately
Frequently Asked Questions
The sooner the better.
You’re eligible for a FREE NHS flu vaccine if:
- You’re are aged 65 years or older (including those who will turn 65 by 31st March 2024)
- You’re pregnant
- You have asthma or a lung condition
- You have chronic heart disease
- You have diabetes
- You have a chronic kidney or liver condition
- You have chronic neurological disease
- You have (or live with someone who has) an illness or are taking medicines that affect the immune system
- You’re severely overweight
- You’re a carer
- You’re a frontline health or social care worker working in a residential or nursing home, a hospice or with a home care provider
- You’re a resident of a nursing or long-stay residential home
This list is constantly reviewed by the NHS. You can find the latest updates on the NHS Website.
Typically boosters are not required
Adults and Children from 2 years: Single dose
Boosters are required annually
Adverse effects associated with this vaccination are fever, injection site reactions, and rash
Children can receive the vaccination
Take Action
More About
Chickenpox
Here is some general information about the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine:
Vaccine Purpose: PPV helps the immune system develop protection against 23 different strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae. These strains are responsible for most pneumococcal infections in adults.
Who Should Get the Vaccine:
- Adults aged 65 and older.
- Individuals aged 2 to 64 with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of pneumococcal disease, such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic lung disease, or a weakened immune system.
Vaccination Schedule: Typically, adults receive a single dose of PPV. However, your healthcare provider may recommend additional doses or booster shots depending on your age and specific health conditions.
Side Effects: Common side effects of the PPV vaccine may include mild pain or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue. Serious side effects are rare.
Effectiveness: The vaccine is effective in reducing the risk of severe pneumococcal infections. However, it may not cover all strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, and protection can decrease over time, which is why booster shots may be recommended.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It’s important to consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance on whether you should receive the PPV vaccine, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
Please note that vaccine recommendations and information can change over time, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional and refer to the most recent guidelines from your local health authorities for the most up-to-date information on the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine.
