Page last updated
04 April 2022
Serious pneumococcal disease is most common in children under two years of age and older adults over the age of 85 years.
FAQ
How can pneumococcal disease be prevented?
Vaccines for pneumococcal disease are provided free as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) as follows:
- Infants are vaccinated at two, four and twelve months of age
- Adults are vaccinated again once they turn 70 years of age
- Other people may also require additional vaccinations if they have a chronic disease or if they are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
Speak with your healthcare professional for further information regarding vaccination for pneumococcal disease.
While vaccination can protect you from becoming infected, to prevent pneumococcal disease spreading, remember to practice good hygiene:
- Always cover your coughs and sneezes
- Wash your hands often
Sources & Citations
2. Better Health Channel. Pneumococcal disease. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pneumococcal-disease (accessed 14 December 2021).
4. Australian Government Department of Health. The Australian Immunisation Handbook -Pneumococcal disease. Available at: https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/vaccine-preventable-diseases/pneumococcal-disease (accessed 14 December 2021).
MAT-AU2102489 Date of preparation March 2022
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