Should I get the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
- Dec 18, 2025
- 3 min read
Pulteney Pharmacy, Bath — Your trusted local pharmacy and travel clinic
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we’re proud to support your health with expert advice on vaccinations and preventive care. One important vaccine we want to highlight is the pneumococcal vaccine, including the newer Prevenar 20 option, which helps protect adults from serious pneumococcal disease.
What Is Pneumococcal Disease?
Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can lead to serious infections such as:
Pneumonia (lung infection)
Meningitis (infection of the brain lining)
Sepsis (blood infection)
These illnesses can be severe — especially in older adults and people with certain health conditions — but vaccination significantly reduces your risk.
About Prevenar 20
Prevenar 20 (a 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) is designed to help protect against 20 different strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae. It’s formulated to trigger a strong immune response, and in adults it is given as a single dose. Pfizer UK+1
Who Prevenar 20 Is For
Prevenar 20 may be recommended for:
Adults aged 50 years and older (who are at increased risk of pneumococcal pneumonia) † ††
Adults who have previously received other pneumococcal vaccines (e.g., PCV13 or PCV15) and may now be eligible for Prevenar 20
Adults with certain chronic health conditions that compromise immunity or increase risk of serious infection
† Based on comparative clinical data showing Prevenar 20 covers more strains than earlier vaccines. adult.prevnar20.com†† Official UK pneumococcal vaccination recommendations include adults aged 65+ and anyone at clinical risk for pneumococcal disease. nhs.uk+1
Benefits of Pneumococcal Vaccination
Benefit | Explanation |
Reduces risk of serious illness | Vaccination lowers your chance of developing pneumococcal pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. nhs.uk |
Broad strain coverage | Prevenar 20 covers 20 pneumococcal serotypes — more than older versions like PCV13/PCV15. Pfizer UK |
Single dose for adults | Adults typically require one dose for their vaccination course. adult.prevnar20.com |
Protects vulnerable groups | Especially important for older adults and people with chronic health conditions. CKS |
Who Should Consider the Pneumococcal Vaccination?
In the UK, pneumococcal vaccination is routinely offered to:
Adults aged 65 or over
People aged 18+ with certain chronic or risk-raising conditions (e.g., heart/lung/renal disease, weakened immunity)
People living with others at increased risk of infection
Prevenar 20 vs Other Pneumococcal Vaccines
Vaccine | Coverage | Typical UK Use |
Prevenar 20 | 20 serotypes | Private pneumococcal vaccination option (broader protection) Pfizer UK |
Prevenar 13 | 13 serotypes | Older standard conjugate vaccine GOV.UK |
PPV23 (Pneumovax 23) | 23 serotypes | Polysaccharide vaccine recommended in some UK adult programmes NHS England |
Ask your pharmacist or GP about the best option for you depending on age, health conditions, and vaccination history.
Side-Effects & Safety
Like all vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines such as Prevenar 20 may cause mild side effects, such as:
Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site
Mild fever or fatigue
These side effects usually resolve quickly. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare — discuss any concerns with your pharmacist or clinician.
Book Your Vaccination With Pulteney Pharmacy
You can book your Pneumococcal Vaccination on
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we provide:
✔ Travel and private vaccination services✔ Expert clinical advice before your vaccination✔ Efficient booking and administration in clinic
Whether you’re preparing for upcoming travel, planning routine adult vaccinations, or want personalised health advice, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us on 01225 466454 (Great Pulteney Street) or 01225 485314 (Bathampton)📍 Visit us at 35 Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4BY or 27 Holcombe Lane, Bathampton BA2 6UL Pulteney Pharmacy
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