What is Pneumococcal Vaccine? 

Both pneumococcal conjugate vaccine i.e. PCV and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine i.e. PPSV provide protection against the pneumococcal infections. The pneumococcus bacterium cause severe  infections such as pneumonia, bacterial meningitis and blood infections.

This bacteria is generally spread via person-to-person contact and thus this pneumococcal vaccine not just prevents the infection in children but also aids in stopping the spread of it. 

Vaccine Schedule

The pneumococcal vaccine is given as four injection series at ages:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months 
• 12-15 months

Note: Healthy kids who are 2-5 years old and have missed the first dose or the subsequent doses owing to vaccine shortage, must still be given the vaccine. 2-6 year old kids who got vaccinated in the past but  have some immuno compromising conditions such as asplenia, etc. would require additional doses of the PCV.  

2-18 year old kids must also be given the PPSV vaccine if they are battling with chronic health conditions such as:

• heart, liver or lung disease
• diabetes
• weakened immune system 
• cochlear implants
• kidney failure 

Why Your Child Needs This Vaccine?

Children below 2 years, adults above age 65, and people with some peculiar medical conditions stand to be most vulnerable to severe pneumococcal infections. If your child is vaccinated with pneumococcal vaccine, it helps in preventing the occurrence of severe diseases, hospitalization, as well as reducing the death chances owing to the disease.

Risk Associated with the Vaccine

Children receiving pneumococcal vaccine generally face redness, swelling or mild tenderness near the vaccinated area. Some kids can even show signs of fever as well as mild allergic reactions.

When not to give the vaccine

You should avoid or delay the immunization if:

1)Your child is presently sick, however; you can give the vaccine in case of simple colds or other minor illnesses.

2)Your child has suffered serious allergic reaction after the previous dose of pneumococcal vaccine.

Child Care Post Vaccination

The pneumococcal vaccine is generally known to trigger mild fever, soreness as well as redness near the vaccinated area. You can give medicines depending upon your child's age. For any sort of fever or pain arising post the vaccination, consult a doctor before giving any sort of medication.

Can pneumococcal be given with other vaccines?

Yes, there is no harm in giving the pneumococcal vaccine with other vaccines such as influenza.

When to seek medical help

You will have to seek instant medical help if your child happens to miss a dose in the vaccine series. Also, if there is any serious allergic reaction or fever post immunization, do consult a doctor.