Pneumonia vaccine is used to prevent pneumonia which is caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. There are in excess of 80 different kinds of penumococcus bacteria and around 23 of these are covered by the current vaccination. Once this vaccine is injected in the body it stimulates the immune system so as to produce antibodies that work against the pneumococcus bacteria.

This process adopted by pneumonia vaccine of stimulating the immune system against particular microbes is known as immunization. The pneumococcal vaccine does not protect a person from pneumonia caused by other bacteria neither does it protect the body against the infection caused by pneumococcal strains that are not included within this vaccine.

This pneumonia vaccine can be administered to adults in the age group of 65 years and older. Individuals having problems related to alcoholism, chronic liver disease, diabetes mellitus, lung disorders and congestive heart failure should also be vaccinated. People with spleen dysfunction, blood malignancy and kidney failure should be vaccinated. This vaccine should not be given to any individuals having a history of hypersensitivity towards the vaccine. Pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy should also seek medical advice before getting vaccinated.

The pneumonia vaccine is given in a single dose and is injected in the form of a liquid solution in the muscle. The deltoid muscle is typically used as the site for the injection. Some reported side effects of this injection include soreness or redness at the injection site. Individuals may also experience rash, fever or allergic reactions in some cases. Other vaccinations like influenza and tetanus vaccines can be given at any time before, after or the same time as the pneumonia vaccine.

From July 2000 childhood immunization with pneumococcal vaccines was recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The newest form of pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for use among children who are 23 months of age and also among younger children.