The pneumococcal infection is found at the back of the nose and throat of healthy adults and children. It is transferred from person to person during close contact. Coughing, sneezing, kissing and touching with unclean hands. Try to encourage your child to wash their hands regularly and especially before eating and after using the toilet. Regular hand washing is important to prevent spread of infection so you and other members of the family should also wash their hands often.
Pneumococcal disease is the term used to describe a range of illnesses such as pneumonia and septicaemia (blood poisoning).
People with asthma have been found to be at higher risk of developing complications of pneumonia. Research shows that the pneumococcal vaccine gives protection to children with asthma. Ask your GP about the pneumococcal vaccine.
