Medical Health Encyclopedia

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine

There is a different vaccine, the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, which is routinely given to younger children to protect against disease due to Streptococcus pneumoniae.

RISKS

Most people have no or only minor side effects from the pneumococcal vaccine. Pain and redness at the injection site can occur. As is the case with any drug or vaccine, there is a remote possibility that allergic reactions, more serious reactions, or even death may occur after receiving the pneumococcal vaccine.

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DELAY OR DO NOT GIVE (CONTRAINDICATIONS)

Pneumococcal vaccine should be withheld or given to the following people only after consultation with their primary health care provider:

• people with fever or illness that is more than "just a cold"
• women who are or might be pregnant

POSTIMMUNIZATIONS AND CARE

Watch for and be familiar with how to treat minor side effects, such as low-grade fever or tenderness, at the injection site.

CALL THE PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER IF:

• uncertain if the pneumococcal vaccine should be delayed, withheld, or given to a specific person.
• moderate or serious adverse effects appear after the pneumococcal injection has been given.
• there are any questions or concerns related to the pneumococcal immunization.

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