The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for:

• all people aged 65 years and over
• other people (aged under 65 including children) who are at higher risk of developing complications from a pneumococcal infection

The vaccine is usually only given once, but it is recommended every five years for individuals with:

• asplenia
• splenic dysfunction
• chronic renal disease

The PPV23 vaccine can be given at the same time as Zostavax® or Shingrix®. 

A different pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13) is given to babies at 12 weeks of age with a booster dose given between 12 and 13 months.

A full list of those eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine is available on NHS inform (external website).