We provide the Pneumococcal Vaccine for Travel in Cheltenham

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Pneumococcal Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening chest infection most commonly caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It leads to inflammation in the lungs, causing symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, and fatigue. Pneumonia is particularly common during the winter months when respiratory infections tend to rise, and it poses a greater risk to older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions. Vaccination is an effective way to reduce the risk of developing pneumococcal pneumonia and its complications.

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Vaccination Pricing

£79 per course

Symptoms & Signs

Common side effects and symptoms associated with pneumonia include:

Persistent cough (may produce phlegm or mucus)
Fever and chills
Chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing, a shortness of breath, or rapid breathing
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Sweating and clammy skin
Muscle aches or joint pain
Confusion (especially in older adults)

James Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 522 880

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

19 St Georges Road, Cheltenham GL50 3DT

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Wymans Brook Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 221 988

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Unit 1, Windyridge Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4RA

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The Vaccination

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Boost required at
2 years and older	1	N/A	N/A

What is Pneumococcal?

Pneumococcal disease refers to a range of infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. This group of illnesses includes pneumonia (lung infection), meningitis (infection of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord), septicaemia (blood poisoning), sinusitis, and ear infections. The disease can affect people of all ages, but infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at particularly high risk. Pneumococcal infections can be serious and sometimes fatal, especially when they become invasive.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

The pneumococcal bacteria are commonly found in the upper respiratory tract and are spread from person to person via droplets from coughs and sneezes. Not everyone who carries the bacteria becomes ill, but they can still pass it on. Prevention is primarily through vaccination. Two types of vaccines are available: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV). In the UK, children receive PCV as part of their routine immunisations, while adults over 65 and individuals with certain medical conditions are offered PPV. Good respiratory hygiene and handwashing also help reduce spread.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection. In pneumonia, signs include fever, chills, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a productive cough. Meningitis symptoms include headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, and vomiting. In infants, it may cause poor feeding, irritability, and high-pitched crying. Ear and sinus infections may cause localised pain and fever. Invasive pneumococcal disease can rapidly become life-threatening if not treated promptly.

How long does the vaccine last?

Protection duration varies depending on the vaccine. The PCV13 used in children offers long-term protection and contributes to herd immunity, reducing the circulation of the bacteria. PPV23, used in adults, provides coverage against a broader range of strains and typically offers protection for around five years. Some individuals may require repeat doses depending on their risk profile.

Countries I need the vaccine for

The pneumococcal vaccine is generally not required for travel but is recommended for individuals at higher risk of complications, especially when travelling to countries where access to advanced medical care may be limited. It’s particularly relevant for those with chronic illnesses, immune disorders, or anyone aged 65 and above.

Vaccine Side effects

Side effects are typically mild and short-lived. They may include redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, mild fever, irritability, and drowsiness in children. Rarely, more serious side effects such as allergic reactions can occur, but these are extremely uncommon.