Pneumococcal disease factsheet
Introduction
Pneumococcal disease is a name for many different types of infections caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as Pneumococcus.
This bacteria often lives in the nose and throat of healthy people, especially young children. During winter, up to 1 in 4 children may carry it.
In some children, especially those with certain health conditions, the bacteria can enter the body or bloodstream and cause serious illness.
In children under five years of age, pneumococcus is the most common cause of:
- otitis media - middle ear infection
- pneumonia - lung infection pneumonia
- bacteraemia - bloodstream infection
- meningitis – life threatening infection of the brain lining.
In Australia, pneumococcal disease is more common in the colder months. Young children can also pass the bacteria to older adults or other people at risk.
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor will diagnose pneumococcal disease based on:
- your child’s symptoms
- a physical check
- results from any scans or tests, like a chest x-ray or taking a sample from the affected area to test for bacteria.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on where the infection is and how severe it is. It may include:
- antibiotics
- over the counter pain relief to reduce fever and aches
- fluids to help prevent dehydration.
Management
Risk factors for Pneumococcal disease
All children under 2 are at higher risk. Other children who may need extra protection include those with:
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background
- Down syndrome
- insulin-dependent diabetes
- chronic lung disease, like cystic fibrosis
- serious heart or kidney conditions
- a damaged or missing spleen, including sickle cell disease
- a weakened immune system from illness or certain medications
- premature birth, before 28 weeks of pregnancy
- chronic lung problems at birth
- cochlear implants
- brain shunts
- cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks from injury or surgery.
Pneumococcal vaccine
The best way to prevent pneumococcal disease is by having the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine, also known as Prevenar.
This vaccine protects against 13 common strains of pneumococcus that affect children. It is different from the vaccine used for adults.
The vaccine is free as part of the National Immunisation Program at:
- 2 months old
- 4 months old
- 6 months old.
Older children who have not had the pneumococcal vaccine may need fewer doses depending on their age and health, as their immune system is more developed. Your local doctor will be able to check this.
Side effects from vaccines are uncommon and usually mild. They can include:
- pain or swelling where the needle went in
- a faint, red rash
- a mild fever.
The benefits of this vaccine far outweigh the small risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Other benefits of the pneumococcal vaccine include:
- reducing the risk of serious infections like meningitis, pneumonia, and ear infections
- lowering the chance of needing grommets by about 20%
- stopping the spread of pneumococcus to other at-risk people, like grandparents or newborn siblings.
Preventing the spread of bacteria
Good hygiene, especially when your child is sick, can help stop the spread of bacteria and viruses. This, along with vaccination, lowers the risk of getting pneumococcal disease.
Here are some things you and your family can do:
- wash hands regularly with soap
- cover your mouth with a tissue or your inner elbow when coughing or sneezing
- stay at home or wear a mask in public if you’re unwell
- do not smoke near babies and children, including in places like the house, car, backyard, or balcony.
Resources and more information
For more information about the vaccine and potential side effects visit the Immunise Australia website and discuss with your family doctor or immunisation provider.
For more information about immunisation schedules, visit the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance website.
Healthdirect provides free, trusted health information and advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week online or via telephone 1800 022 022.
