Pneumococcal disease is a group of infections caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacterium. These infections can be serious, particularly for young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic medical conditions.
Because of the potential severity of this disease, getting vaccinated is an important step in protecting yourself and your community.
In the United States, there are two types of pneumococcal vaccines, both proven to be safe and effective. Like any vaccine, they can cause mild, short-term side effects that typically go away within a few days. The most common include:
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Redness or soreness where the shot was given
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Low-grade fever
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Tiredness
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Headache
Let’s look more closely at pneumococcal disease, the available vaccines, and their possible side effects.
Understanding Pneumococcal Disease
Pneumococcal disease is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that spreads easily through respiratory secretions like saliva or mucus. While anyone can get infected, it most often affects children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions.
The infection can lead to various illnesses, some of which can become life-threatening, including:
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Pneumonia
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Meningitis
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Sinus infections
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Middle ear infections (otitis media)
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Bloodstream infections (bacteremia)
The Two Types of Pneumococcal Vaccines
Vaccination helps prevent pneumococcal disease and reduces its spread within communities. While it doesn’t guarantee complete protection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that even a single dose can provide significant defense against infection.
The two pneumococcal vaccines available in the U.S. are:
PCV13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
PCV13 protects against 13 strains of pneumococcal bacteria. It is given as a four-dose series for children and a single dose for some adults.
Recommended for:
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Children younger than 2 years
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Adults 65 and older (based on medical advice)
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People aged 2–64 with chronic conditions such as diabetes, HIV, or heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease
PPSV23 (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine)
PPSV23 protects against 23 pneumococcal strains and is usually given as one dose.
Recommended for:
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Adults 65 and older
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Individuals aged 2–64 with chronic health problems
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Adults aged 19–64 who smoke
Common Mild Side Effects
Both pneumococcal vaccines can cause mild reactions that typically last only a few days.
Possible PCV13 side effects:
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Pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
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Mild fever or chills
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Headache
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Sleepiness
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Decreased appetite
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Irritability
Possible PPSV23 side effects:
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Redness, soreness, or swelling at the injection site
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Mild fever
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Fatigue
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Muscle aches
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Headache
Rare Serious Reactions
Severe allergic reactions to pneumococcal vaccines are extremely rare. The CDC estimates they occur in about 1 in 1 million doses.
Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) usually appear soon after vaccination and may include:
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Difficulty breathing or wheezing
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Fast heartbeat
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Dizziness or fainting
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Pale, clammy skin
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Feelings of anxiety or panic
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Confusion
If you or your child experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Side Effects in Infants
The CDC recommends the PCV13 vaccine for infants, given as four doses at:
2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and between 12–15 months of age.
Common side effects in babies include:
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Fussiness or irritability
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Tenderness or swelling at the injection site
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Loss of appetite
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Disrupted sleep
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Sleepiness
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Mild fever
Rarely, serious reactions such as a high fever, rash, or seizures may occur. Contact your child’s pediatrician right away if these symptoms develop.
Helping Your Child Feel Better After the Vaccine
If your child feels uncomfortable after vaccination, there are several ways to ease symptoms:
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Keep them cool and offer plenty of fluids if they develop a fever.
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Apply a cool, damp cloth to the injection site to reduce swelling or soreness.
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Use infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for pain or fever, following the proper dosage instructions.
How Effective Are Pneumococcal Vaccines?
Before being approved, all vaccines undergo thorough testing to ensure safety and effectiveness.
A 2016 study found that PCV13 was:
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86% effective against the 13 strains it targets
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60.2% effective against all types of S. pneumoniae infections
A 2021 review showed that PPSV23 is effective against the strains it covers, although protection may be slightly lower in adults over 75 or those with chronic illnesses. In general, its effectiveness ranges between 60–70%, and over 80% of healthy adults develop protective antibodies after receiving it.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for:
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All infants and children under 2 years old
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Adults aged 65 and older
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People with chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
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Those with weakened immune systems
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Adults aged 19–64 who smoke
Talk with your healthcare provider to determine which vaccine is best for your situation.
Who Should Not Receive the Vaccine
Certain individuals should avoid pneumococcal vaccination.
Avoid PCV13 if you:
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Are currently ill
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Have had a severe allergic reaction to:
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A previous dose of PCV13
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The older PCV7 vaccine
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A diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine (such as DTaP)
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Any ingredient in PCV13
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Avoid PPSV23 if you:
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Are currently ill
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Have had a serious allergic reaction to:
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A previous dose of PPSV23
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Any component of the vaccine
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If you have concerns about allergies, ask your doctor for a list of the vaccine’s ingredients.
The Bottom Line
Pneumococcal disease can cause serious infections that may become life-threatening, especially in young children, older adults, and people with chronic health issues.
The two available vaccines—PCV13 and PPSV23—offer strong protection against multiple strains of the bacteria.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, though rare severe allergic reactions can occur.
Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss which pneumococcal vaccine is most appropriate for you or your child.