This is a vaccine against serious illnesses caused by 23 different strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria (also called pneumococcus).

This vaccine, available as Pneumovax® 23, offers protection against many strains of pneumococcal pneumonia, blood infection, or meningitis, all very serious and potentially life-threatening forms of infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae.

It is given as an injection into the subcutaneous or intramuscular tissue of the deltoid muscle or lateral mid-thigh.

You may experience redness or pain at the injection site: this occurs about half of the time. About 1% of people develop fever, muscle aches, or more of a reaction at the injection site. Remember to check with your doctor if you need to get a second dose. It is unclear if this vaccine is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you are going to undergo treatment like chemotherapy that will suppress your immune system, the timing of the vaccine beforehand can be very important; discuss this with your doctor. It is considered safe to administer this vaccine at the same time as the influenza vaccine as long as it is given in the other arm.

Individuals with prior severe reactions to this vaccine may not be able to receive another dose. Check with your doctor regarding this issue and for any other contraindications for this vaccine. Also check with your doctor to find out what other ingredients may be in the vaccine, its container, or any diluent in case of allergies or other concerns. Immunization is usually postponed for individuals with a moderate or severe acute illness.

• Age >/= 65
• Chronic kidney, lung, liver, or cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• No spleen or non-functioning spleen
• Sickle cell anemia
• Leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, multiple myeloma, advanced cancer, organ or marrow transplant
• Immune suppression from chemotherapy, radiation therapy
• Cochlear implant
• Resident of long-term care facility
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak
• Native Alaskan and some Native American