Pneumonia Vaccination
About the vaccine
The pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine helps protect against some types of bacterial infections that can cause serious illnesses like:
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pneumonia (an infection in the lungs)
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meningitis (an infection in the brain and spinal cord)
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sepsis (a life-threatening reaction to an infection)
It can also help protect against other illnesses such as sinusitis and ear infections.
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What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by an infection. Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks, but babies, older people, and people with heart or lung conditions are at risk of getting seriously ill and may need treatment in hospital.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pneumonia can start suddenly or gradually over a few days. They include:
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a cough – you may cough up yellow or green mucus (phlegm)
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shortness of breath
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a high temperature
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chest pain
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an aching body
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feeling very tired
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loss of appetite
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making wheezing noises when you breathe – babies may also make grunting noises
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feeling confused – this is common in older people
Your symptoms may come on gradually, but sometimes the symptoms of pneumonia start suddenly and rapidly get worse.​​
Other Details
The rate of emergency admissions to hospital for pneumonia in England increased by 16% in the financial year ending 2024 from the previous year, to a rate of 430 (428 to 432) per 100,000 population, representing 252,912 admissions. The rate is significantly higher than the previous year.
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The pneumonia vaccination is recommended for employees exposed to welding and metal fumes. This is because exposure to metal fumes can irritate the respiratory system, increasing the risk of pneumonia.
Pneumonia vaccination for employees exposed to welding and metal fume
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