The vaccination serves for preventing the pneumonia caused by the pneumococcal bacterium (Streptococcus pneumoniae), spread by droplet infection. More than 80 types of bacteria are known and spread worldwide.

The disease

Its most common form is the lober pneumonia with the symptoms of fever, respiratory difficulties and cough. Circulatory and respiratory failures can occur as complications. The most common cause of death of the flue epidemics are the pneumococcal superinfections and its complications.

What is to be known about the vaccination?

It contains 23 types and was created for people older than 2 years. Children have to receive vaccination in certain cases. For children below the age of 2, a conjugated immunization of 7 components is in use.

For whom should it be considered?

• Adults above the age of 60
  
• People suffering from diabetes
  
• People suffering from liver and renal failure
  
• People with immune deficiency syndrome
  
• People whose spleen has been removed
  

The vaccination should be given prior to travel to travellers belonging to the group above, in case of having not been vaccinated before.

When is it contraindicated?

• In case of diseases with fever