Ask The Doctor Two Pneumonia Shots Are Better Than One

Overview

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can make it hard to breathe and can be serious, especially for older adults and people with long-term health conditions. The pneumonia shots (also called pneumococcal vaccines) help protect against the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia. There are two types of pneumonia shots, and some people may need both for stronger, longer-lasting protection.

Pneumococcal disease is common worldwide. It can cause pneumonia, blood infections, and meningitis, and is a major reason people are admitted to hospital with severe chest infections.

It can affect anyone, but young children under 2, adults over 65, and people with long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Cough
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath or fast breathing
• Chest pain that worsens when breathing
• Tiredness or weakness
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in children

• Fast or grunting breathing
• Flaring of the nostrils with each breath
• Ribs pulling in with each breath (chest retractions)
• Cough and fever
• Not feeding or drinking well
• Being unusually sleepy or irritable

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or sudden change in mental clarity
• Feeling very weak or unsteady
• Low body temperature (instead of a fever)
• Cough with or without sputum
• Loss of appetite and reduced activity

Causes

Main causes

• Bacteria called pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) are the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia.
• Viruses and other germs can also cause pneumonia, but the pneumonia shots specifically protect against pneumococcal bacteria.
• The bacteria can spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces, then entering the lungs.

Risk factors

• Being 65 years or older
• Being under 2 years old
• Chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, diabetes, or heart disease
• A weakened immune system due to illness or medication
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Recent hospitalisation or living in a care facility

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, or a very high fever
• If you cough up blood
• If you feel confused or very drowsy
• If you are on treatment for pneumonia but symptoms are getting worse

Book a routine appointment if:

• Ask your doctor or nurse about pneumonia shots if you are 65 or older, or if you have a long-term condition.
• If you have already had one pneumonia shot, ask whether you should have the second one.
• If you smoke, talk to your doctor about stopping smoking and getting vaccinated.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will listen to your chest with a stethoscope, ask about your symptoms and medical history, and check your temperature and breathing. If they suspect pneumonia, they may order tests to confirm it.

Tests that may be done

• Chest X-ray to see if there is infection in your lungs
• Blood tests to check for signs of infection
• Sputum (phlegm) sample to look for the germ causing the infection
• A pulse oximeter to measure the oxygen level in your blood

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask you to take a deep breath while they listen to your lungs. If a chest X-ray is needed, you'll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. Blood tests are quick, and results may take a few days. You may be given antibiotic treatment before the exact germ is identified.

Treatment

Treatment for bacterial pneumonia usually involves rest, fluids, and antibiotics. In more severe cases, you may need to go to hospital for oxygen and intravenous fluids. The pneumonia vaccines are given as prevention, not as treatment, once you already have pneumonia.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest to help your body fight the infection
• Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated and loosen mucus
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed (based on the pack advice or a pharmacist's guidance) to reduce fever and discomfort
• Avoid smoking or being around smoke, as it makes the lungs worse
• Use a warm, steamy environment (like a hot shower) to ease coughing

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia. You may also be given inhalers or oxygen if your breathing is affected. In hospital, treatment can include fluids through a drip and closer monitoring. Always take the full course of any prescribed medicine, even if you start to feel better.

Living with this condition

Recovering from pneumonia can take weeks or even months for some people. Plan to take it slow: rest when you feel tired, keep up with simple tasks, and gradually increase activity as your strength returns. If you are recovering at home, avoid close contact with others who may be vulnerable to infection.

Lifestyle tips

• Quit smoking to reduce your risk of future lung infections
• Wash your hands regularly to avoid spreading germs
• Avoid large crowds during cold and flu season if you are at high risk
• Catch up on recommended vaccines, including flu and COVID-19, as advised by your healthcare team

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables helps your immune system. Once you feel better, gentle exercise like short walks can rebuild strength, but wait until your breathing is more comfortable. Check with your doctor before returning to strenuous exercise.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling anxious, low, or frustrated during recovery is normal. Serious illness can take an emotional toll. Speak to your doctor if you notice persistent sadness, anxiety, or trouble sleeping.

Prevention

Yes. Besides good hygiene, the most effective way to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia is by getting vaccinated. Both pneumonia shots together provide broader protection than one alone, and your doctor can tell you if you need both.

Vaccines

There are two types of pneumococcal vaccine: one that is often given in childhood and another that is given to older adults and people with certain health conditions. The timing depends on your age and health. Ask your doctor or practice nurse: 'Do I need both pneumonia shots?' They can help you understand which ones you've already had and which you still need.

Complications

If left untreated

• Bacteria can spread from the lungs into the bloodstream, causing a serious infection called septicaemia or sepsis
• Infection can reach the lining of the brain (meningitis)
• Fluid can collect around the lungs (pleural effusion), making breathing even harder
• Lung abscess or permanent lung damage
• Respiratory failure requiring intensive care

Long-term outlook

Most people with pneumonia recover fully with proper treatment, but it can be serious. Getting the right vaccines, especially both pneumonia shots, greatly lowers your risk of becoming severely ill. If you do get pneumonia, early medical care and completing your treatment give you the best chance of a full recovery.

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