Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumococcal Vaccine | Plaistow, Newham & East London

Pneumococcal disease is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and can lead to serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis and blood poisoning (sepsis). Vaccination is one of the ways individuals in eligible groups can reduce their risk. At Newmans Pharmacy on Barking Road, E13, our pharmacists offer pneumococcal vaccination following a short consultation to check your suitability.

What Does the Pneumococcal Vaccine Help Protect Against?

Pneumococcal bacteria can cause a range of infections, from mild ear infections to more serious illness, including:

  • Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
  • Meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord)
  • Bacteraemia and sepsis (infection of the bloodstream)
  • Sinusitis and middle ear infections

There are two main types of pneumococcal vaccine used in the UK: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV). Your pharmacist will discuss which vaccine may be appropriate for you as part of your consultation.

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Who May Benefit from Pneumococcal Vaccination?

The NHS routine immunisation programme offers the pneumococcal vaccine free of charge to specific groups, including:

  • Babies, as part of the routine NHS childhood immunisation schedule
  • Adults aged 65 and over
  • Children and adults with certain long-term health conditions (for example, chronic heart, lung, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system)
  • Individuals without a spleen, or with a spleen that does not work properly

If you are unsure whether you fall into an eligible group, our pharmacist can help you check during your consultation, or you can confirm your eligibility with your GP practice.

Please note: Suitability for vaccination, whether via the NHS programme or privately, will always be confirmed following an individual consultation and assessment by one of our pharmacists.

Eligibility Information

  • NHS-funded vaccination may be available to you if you fall within a nationally eligible group (see above). Availability can vary and is subject to current NHS guidance.
  • Privately funded vaccination may be an option for those who do not meet NHS eligibility criteria but wish to discuss protection with a pharmacist.
  • A short health questionnaire and consultation will be carried out before any vaccine is given, to help identify any reasons vaccination may not be suitable for you (for example, allergies or current illness).

Please bring details of your relevant medical history, current medication and any previous vaccine reactions to your appointment.

Treatment Options

  • Depending on your age, health history and eligibility, your pharmacist may discuss:

    • The routine NHS pneumococcal vaccine (where eligible)
    • A privately funded pneumococcal vaccine appointment
    • Signposting to your GP practice where NHS provision is more appropriate

    Treatment options may vary depending on individual circumstances, and your pharmacist will talk you through what is available at the time of your consultation.

Safety Information

  • As with all vaccines, some people may experience mild, short-lived side effects such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or tiredness. Your pharmacist can talk you through what to expect.
  • You should tell the pharmacist before vaccination if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine, are unwell with a high temperature, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, as this may affect suitability.
  • This service does not replace advice from your GP or specialist for the management of any existing long-term condition.
  • If you feel unwell after vaccination and are concerned, contact NHS 111, your GP, or in an emergency call 999.

Book An Appointment

Private Clinical Consultation

Speak with our pharmacists in a confidential setting. We offer professional clinical assessments for all your health concerns, ensuring you receive personalized care in a private environment.

Book an appointment

Schedule your visit online to skip the queue. Use our easy booking system for vaccinations, health screenings, and clinic services at a time that works best for you.

Expert Pharmacy Guidance

Get reliable healthcare advice from our experienced team. From medication reviews to lifestyle tips, we provide the expert guidance you need to manage your health effectively.

Useful Links

The following websites provide further information and guidance on pneumococcal disease, vaccination, and NHS health advice:

Our Branches in Plaistow

Frequently Asked Question

Who is eligible for the free NHS pneumococcal vaccine?

The NHS programme is generally offered to babies as part of routine childhood immunisations, adults aged 65 and over, and people with certain long-term health conditions. Our pharmacist can help confirm your eligibility during a consultation.

A privately funded appointment may be available. This is subject to a pharmacist consultation to check suitability on an individual basis.

No. They protect against different infections. Some patients choose to have both, where clinically appropriate, and your pharmacist can advise on this during your visit.

This depends on the type of vaccine given and your individual risk group. Your pharmacist will explain what applies to your situation.

We recommend booking an appointment online or contacting either branch directly, though availability may allow for walk-ins where possible.

Pharmacy Info

Opening Hours
(376 - Abbey Arms)

Opening Hours
(524-526 - Greengate)

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