Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, and may lead to serious illness, particularly in older adults, babies and people with certain long-term health conditions. Pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against pneumonia and other infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus.

At Avante Pharmacy in Edinburgh, our pneumonia vaccination service provides a convenient opportunity to discuss your eligibility, review your vaccination history and receive the appropriate vaccine following a pharmacist-led assessment.

What is pneumococcal disease?

Pneumococcus is a type of bacterium that can cause a range of infections. These include pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections and ear infections. Pneumococcal disease can affect anyone, but complications are more likely in young children, older adults and people whose immune system or general health makes it harder to fight infection.

Vaccination reduces the risk of serious pneumococcal disease. However, it cannot prevent every type of pneumonia because pneumonia has many possible causes. It also does not replace other measures such as hand hygiene, managing long-term conditions and seeking medical advice promptly when symptoms are severe or worsening.

Who is eligible for pneumonia vaccination?

Eligibility depends on your age, health conditions, previous vaccinations and the current NHS immunisation programme. In Scotland, pneumococcal vaccination is routinely offered to babies and to older adults, with additional vaccination recommended for people in certain clinical risk groups.

Adults who may be advised to have pneumococcal vaccination include:

  • People aged 65 or over, according to the current NHS programme.
  • People with chronic respiratory conditions, including some forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or severe asthma.
  • People with significant heart, kidney or liver disease.
  • People with diabetes.
  • People with reduced immune function, including those taking certain immunosuppressive medicines.
  • People living without a functioning spleen, or who have had their spleen removed.
  • People with a cochlear implant or a cerebrospinal fluid leak.
  • People with HIV or other conditions that increase the risk of serious pneumococcal infection.

The exact recommendations can vary according to the condition and the person’s age. Some people need vaccination because of a particular medical risk even if they are younger than the routine age group. Children generally receive pneumococcal vaccination through the childhood NHS programme, so parents or carers should check the child’s Red Book or NHS vaccination record before arranging an additional appointment.

Which pneumococcal vaccine will I receive?

The vaccine recommended depends on your age, clinical risk factors and vaccination history. National guidance may use different pneumococcal vaccines for different groups, and the programme can be updated as evidence and supply arrangements change.

At your appointment, the pharmacist will check which vaccine is appropriate rather than assuming that one product is suitable for everyone. If you have previously received a pneumococcal vaccine, the date and type may affect whether you need another dose. Bring any available vaccination records, particularly if you have been vaccinated elsewhere or have recently moved to the area.

Pneumococcal vaccination is separate from the seasonal flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination. Having a flu vaccination does not protect against pneumococcal disease, and pneumococcal vaccination does not protect against influenza or COVID-19. Depending on your circumstances, more than one vaccination may be recommended.

How does the appointment work?

Your appointment begins with a brief clinical assessment. The pharmacist will ask about your age, medical history, allergies, current medicines, previous vaccinations and any relevant treatment that may affect your immune system. You should mention if you have previously had a serious reaction to a vaccine or if you are currently unwell.

The vaccine is usually given as an injection into the upper arm. The injection itself takes only a few seconds. You may be asked to remain at the pharmacy for a short period afterwards so that the pharmacy team can make sure you are feeling well before you leave.

If you are eligible for an NHS vaccination, the pharmacist can explain the available NHS pathway. A private appointment may be appropriate for people who do not meet NHS eligibility criteria but wish to discuss personal protection, subject to clinical suitability and vaccine availability. The pharmacist will explain any costs and options before vaccination.

What can I expect after vaccination?

Most people tolerate pneumococcal vaccination well. Common effects are generally mild and short-lived. These may include:

  • Soreness, redness or swelling where the injection was given.
  • A mild temperature or feeling feverish.
  • Tiredness, headache or general aches.
  • Feeling faint or light-headed shortly after the injection.

Rest, drinking fluids and moving the arm gently can help with minor discomfort. If you need advice about pain relief, ask the pharmacist, particularly if you take other medicines or have a long-term condition. Serious allergic reactions are very uncommon, but urgent medical help is needed if you develop breathing difficulty, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash soon after vaccination.

You may not be vaccinated on the day if you have a high temperature or are acutely unwell. A minor illness without a fever does not always prevent vaccination, but the pharmacist will make the final decision after assessment. Tell the pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a weakened immune system or are receiving treatment for cancer, as this may influence the timing and clinical advice.

Why consider vaccination?

Pneumococcal infection can become serious quickly, and hospital treatment may be required. The risk is higher when the immune system is weakened or when the lungs, heart, kidneys or liver are already affected by disease. Vaccination is one part of protecting your health and may be particularly important before winter, when respiratory infections are more common, although it can be given at other times of year when indicated.

If you are unsure whether you have already had a pneumococcal vaccine, do not rely on memory alone. The pharmacy team can discuss the information available and advise whether you should contact your GP practice or NHS vaccination service to confirm your record.

Book your pneumonia vaccination in Edinburgh

If you would like to check your eligibility or arrange a convenient appointment, book your pneumonia vaccination at Avante Pharmacy. Our pharmacist will answer your questions and help you understand the most appropriate option for your circumstances.