What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is inflammation (swelling) of the tissue in one or both lungs. It's usually caused by a bacterial infection.

There are clusters of tiny air sacs at the end of the breathing tubes in your lungs. If you have pneumonia, these tiny sacs become inflamed and fill up with fluid.

Why would you need the pneumococcal vaccine?

Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and can lead to pneumonia, septicaemia and meningitis which can be life threatening. The bacteria spreads by coughing, sneezing or close contact.

Everyone is at risk of catching this disease, however it is most prevalent in older people and very young children, those with chronic diseases, and those with a weakened immune system and those without a spleen.

Who should get the Pneumococcal Vaccine?

You should get the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) if you are:

> aged 65 and over

> aged 18 or over and at higher risk of getting seriously ill (your pharmacist will advise you on the conditions that out you at a higher risk)

What is the cost?

The cost is €45.

Where is this service available?

This service is available in select McCabes Pharmacy stores. Please contact your local pharmacy for more information.

How does the pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPV) vaccine work?

The vaccine helps the body produce antibodies to fight against pneumococcal bacteria. If you come into contact with the bacteria, these antibodies will fight the infection.

After the vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine can sometimes cause mild side effects. The most common being:

pain at the injection site
redness on some skin tones
swelling where the injection was given
headaches
tiredness
muscle aches

The PPV23 vaccine is not recommended for kids and young adults who are in good health because they have a very low risk of getting pneumococcal disease. If you had a bad reaction to this vaccine before or if you are allergic to any of the things in the vaccine, don't get it. If you have a high temperature or feel too sick to do normal activities, wait until you feel better before getting the vaccine.