Updated September 2024
Pneumococcal disease is caused by different strains of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is spread through respiratory droplets from direct or indirect contact. Anyone can get a pneumococcal infection. Infections can lead to meningitis, serious blood infections (sepsis), pneumonia (lung infection), ear infections or sinus infections.
The disease can be serious in children under two years of age, people with certain medical conditions or other risk factors, and adults 65 years of age or older. Vaccination is the best protection.
Pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for routine immunization of infants, children and adults, as well as those who are at higher risk of getting very sick from an infection. Pneumococcal vaccines (Vaxneuvance® (PNEU-C-15) and Prevnar™20 (PNEU-C-20) are approved by Health Canada and are safe and effective. Prevnar™20 is a vaccine that protect against 20 different strains while Vaxneuvance® protects against 15 strains. The vaccines work by helping the body to make its own antibodies. The vaccines provide 70 to 95 per cent protection against severe disease in someone with a weakened immune system.
The vaccine is generally well tolerated. Vaccine side effects are usually mild and last one to two days. Common reactions include soreness, redness and/or swelling where the vaccine was given, fever, drowsiness, loss of appetite, headache, muscle or joint ache, chills and/or fussiness (irritability) – infants only.
In rare cases, serious reactions such as trouble breathing, rash, swelling in the throat and face may occur and can be treated. These rare occurrences are usually temporary. Please stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after vaccination so staff can monitor for any reactions.
Pneumococcal vaccines are publicly funded for:
The vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines including influenza and COVID-19.
The vaccine is only given to anyone who had not previously had a pneumococcal vaccine series. Currently there is no catch up for the new vaccine. Speak with your health care provider to determine your vaccine eligibility.