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Pneumococcal vaccination
Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by the bacterium. Streptococcus pneumoniae usually lives harmlessly in the back of many peoples’ throats. However, it can invade other parts of the body and cause serious, possibly life-threatening illnesses, notably:
One of the main natural defences against pneumococcal disease is a powerful immune system, which fights off the infection. Certain medical conditions and advancing age can weaken the immune system and make you more likely to develop a serious infection.
Pneumococcal vaccination can help prevent disease. It is better to prevent the infection occurring in the first place, rather than having to treat it with antibiotics.
Pneumococcal disease can strike at any time of year; so the sooner you get vaccinated the better!
Pneumococcal vaccinations for adults
The good news is that for most adult patients, the pneumococcal vaccine is given only once.
The cost for the single adult pneumococcal (Pneumovax) vaccination is currently £45*.
Pneumococcal vaccinations for children
Breakspear Hospital is now offering these mercury-free vaccinations, protecting against
pneumococcal meningitis.
These vaccinations are given by intramuscular injections in the deltoid arm muscle for patient's over one year. Injections in the thigh muscle is preferred for under one year.
More than 1 in 10 children will experience a localised reaction at the site of the injection, irritability, fever and/or diarrhoea, vomiting and restless sleep.
Below is a timetable for mercury-free Prevenar (7-valent) for infants and children.**
After the course, re-vaccination is not recommended due to adverse reactions
Children with severe illness (eg asplenia nephrotic) may need re-vaccinating after 3 – 5 years, but this must be discussed with haematologist, immunologist or microbiologist.
The cost of each Prevenar (7-valent) dose is £60*.
Please note: Pneumovax II is reserved for children at high risk with serious medical conditions (eg asplenia, nephritic syndrome, liver and heart disease).
If you have any questions, our Reception and/or nurses will be happy to discuss the Prevenar and Pneumovax vaccinations with you.
Call our Immunisation Department 01442 261 333 Option 1 today to make your appointment!
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* Breakspear Medical Group reserves the right to alter prices without notice.
** This vaccination schedule follows with the recommendations from the current British National Formulary and the Department of Health (DOH). Our recommended vaccination schedule is likely to be changed to follow any revisions of the DOH immunisation programme.
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