Syringe with vaccine, 2009
Most children only need one dose of pneumococcal vaccine. However if your child has certain medical conditions (kidney disease and problems with their immune system) they may need a booster every 5 years.
It is given by injection to the upper outer area of your child’s arm. It takes only seconds. It can be given at the same time as their flu vaccine.
Side effects are usually mild and only last a day or two. These include swelling, redness and pain at the injection site occasionally some children experience fever and muscle pain. Make sure the child drinks plenty of fluids and takes regular doses of children’s paracetamol (but do not exceed the recommended dose for your child).
