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Pneumococcal 23 Vaccination (PNEUMONIA)

PNEUMOVAX® 23 Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine

15 min

About this service

➤ What is pneumococcal infection? Pneumococcal infection is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. The bacteria can cause serious and life-threatening infections of the lining that covers the brain (meningitis), the blood (septicemia), and the lungs (pneumonia). Permanent complications of the infection include brain damage and deafness. For every 20 cases of pneumococcal meningitis, up to 5 people will die. Pneumococcal infection is spread from one person to another by coughing, sneezing, or close face-to-face contact. It can also spread through saliva. For example, by kissing or sharing food, drinks, cigarettes, lipsticks, water bottles, sports mouth guards, or mouthpieces of musical instruments. ➤ What is the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine? The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria. The vaccine is approved by Health Canada. ➤ Who should get the vaccine? The vaccine is free for people at high risk of getting sick from pneumococcal infections including: - Adults 65 years and older - Residents of long-term care and assisted living facilities The vaccine is also free for anyone 2 years of age and older with the following conditions: - No spleen, or a spleen that is not working properly - Sickle-cell disease - An immune system weakened by disease or medical treatment - Chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C - Chronic kidney, heart or lung disease - An islet cell or solid organ transplant, or a cochlear (inner ear) implant, or those who are waiting for one - A stem cell transplant - Diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or a chronic cerebrospinal fluid leak - A chronic neurological condition that makes it hard to clear fluids from the mouth or throat - An alcohol use disorder - Experiencing homelessness and /or people who use illicit drugs A second dose of vaccine is recommended for people with certain medical conditions. Speak with your healthcare provider to find out if you need a second dose and when you should get it.

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