Vaccination against pneumococcal infection
Pneumococci are bacteria that can make you ill. If you get vaccinated, you reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill.
What are pneumococci?
Pneumococci are bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses,
such as pneumonia and ear infections.
Anyone can fall ill with pneumococcal infection. However, it is most common
in children under 2 years of age and adults over 65.
There is a vaccine that protects against pneumococcal infection.
Who needs to be vaccinated against pneumococcal infection?
We recommend that you get vaccinated if any of the following apply to you:
- You are 65 years of age or older.
- You have a severely weakened immune system due to an illness or treatment.
- You have a cochlear implant.
- You have had an organ transplant.
- You have a condition that puts you at greater risk, such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis or a long-term heart or lung condition.
Other people may also need to be vaccinated.
Contact your local healthcare centre if you are unsure whether you need to be vaccinated.
When can I get vaccinated against pneumococcal infection?
You can get vaccinated against pneumococcal infection at any time during the year. You will receive one dose, which provides protection for several years.
You can get vaccinated while receiving other vaccines, such as the flu vaccine.
Where and when you can get vaccinated is determined by the region you live in.
For more information on where and when you can get vaccinated, please visit 1177.se.
Vaccination mot pneumokocker (1177.se) (in Swedish)
When can children be vaccinated against pneumococcal infection?
Children receive the vaccination at the children’s health centre (Barnavårdscentralen, BVC) when they are 3, 5 and 12 months old. The vaccination is part of the national vaccination programme for children.
Children who have not previously been vaccinated can receive the vaccine at the children’s health centre before their 6th birthday.