Pneumococcal vaccine: Learn about pneumococcal vaccination

Learn about pneumococcal vaccination (pneumonia vaccine) indications, types, side effects, recommended schedule, ages, and guidelines. What Are Pneumococcal Infections? The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) protect against pneumococcal infections, which are caused by bacteria. While people vaccinated for pneumococcal disease have ongoing protection, they may need an additional type of pneumococcal vaccine depending on their initial vaccine type and whether they have certain medical conditions that put them at higher risk. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines can protect children from Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is the most common cause of severe bacterial pneumonia among children.