PNEUMONIA VACCINATIONS
I NEED TO BOOK A PRIVATE PNEUMOINA VACCINATION
I NEED TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PNEUMONIA
PROTECT AGAINST PNEUMONIA THIS WINTER
Pneumonia can make you feel seriously unwell and, for some people, can lead to complications that require medical treatment.
Having a pneumonia vaccination each year can help reduce your risk of becoming ill and can also lessen the severity of infection if you do catch pneumonia. Dears Pharmacy provides private pneumonia vaccinations across selected locations. You can book below at our locations across Lothian, Fife, Glasgow and Tayside in a few minutes. Availability of any prescription-only medicine is subject to a clinical assessment and at the discretion of the clinician. Supply is not guaranteed.
BOOK A PRIVATE PNEUMONIA VACCINATION
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER A PRIVATE PNEUMONIA VACCINATION?
Our pneumonia vaccination service is suitable for adults aged 18. Pneumonia can affect anyone, but it is more common and severe in:
- Elderly people.
- Smokers.
- People with health conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems.
The vaccine is also recommended for those travelling to regions with higher rates of pneumococcal infection, such as parts of Africa and South East Asia.
WHO SHOULD NOT GET PNEUMONIA VACCINATION
The pneumonia vaccine may not be suitable for:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
- People undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
- Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to vaccines or injections.
This is not a complete list. Our pharmacists in Edinburgh and Fife will assess suitability during a short consultation.
Available PNEUMONIA Vaccinations
PNEUMONIA VaccinatioN
Our private pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
Unlike the flu vaccination, pneumococcal vaccination is not normally needed every year. It can provide longer-term protection against pneumococcal disease, although the vaccination recommended for you may depend on factors such as your age, health and previous vaccination history.
A private pneumococcal vaccination can be a good option if you are not eligible for an NHS vaccination or would simply like additional protection against pneumococcal disease. Your healthcare professional will check that the vaccination is suitable for you before it is given and can answer any questions you may have.
PNEUMONIA AND FLU Vaccination
You can choose to receive private pneumococcal (pneumonia) and flu vaccinations during the same appointment, where both vaccinations are clinically appropriate for you.
Pneumococcal disease and flu are caused by different infections and require different vaccines. Receiving both vaccinations at the same visit provides a convenient way to increase your protection against serious respiratory illness.
Our healthcare professional will check that both vaccinations are suitable for you before they are given.
PNEUMONIA, FLU and COVID Vaccination
You can also book a private COVID-19 vaccination together with flu and pneumococcal vaccinations during the same appointment, where clinically appropriate.
The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against serious illness caused by COVID-19, while the flu vaccine protects against influenza. The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious infections including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
Receiving all three vaccinations during one appointment can be a convenient way to strengthen your protection against several important respiratory infections.
Our healthcare professional will check your vaccination history and make sure each vaccination is suitable for you before proceeding.
Why Choose a Private Pneumonia VaccinATION with Dears Pharmacy?
- Protect yourself even if you are not eligible for an NHS jab.
- Administered close to home by qualified healthcare professionals.
- Maintain immunity and reduce the risk of severe illness.
- Combine with an annual flu vaccination or a flu vaccination and covid vaccination for comprehensive seasonal protection.
ABOUT PNEUMONIA VACCINATIONS
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can affect anyone. It spreads through coughing and sneezing and can lead to severe illness, particularly in vulnerable groups. In the UK, approximately 5 to 11 adults per 1,000 are diagnosed with pneumonia each year.
Protect yourself with the pneumonia vaccine from Dears Pharmacy, available at our locations across Edinburgh and Fife. Our vaccine provides long-lasting protection against 20 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae.
This pneumonia vaccination is a one-off shot. No annual boosters are needed, and it can be administered at any time of the year.
Availability of any prescription-only medicine is subject to a clinical assessment and at the discretion of the clinician. Supply is not guaranteed.
Why have a pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccination?
Pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. These bacteria can cause serious illnesses including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
Unlike flu vaccination, pneumococcal vaccination is not normally needed every year. The vaccination you need can depend on your age, health, vaccination history and individual risk.
Vaccination can:
- reduce your risk of serious pneumococcal infection.
- help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia.
- provide important protection for people who may be more vulnerable to complications.
- reduce the risk of serious illness and complications caused by pneumococcal disease.
It usually takes around two to three weeks for your immune response to develop following vaccination, so protection is not immediate.
PNEUMONIA SUPPORT TIPS
- Consider vaccination — pneumococcal vaccination can help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia and other serious infections.
- Wash your hands regularly — good hygiene helps reduce the spread of infections that can cause pneumonia.
- Avoid smoking — stopping smoking can reduce your risk of pneumonia and improve overall lung health.
- Look after your respiratory health — stay up to date with relevant vaccinations, including flu vaccination where appropriate.
PNEUMONIA FAQs
Can I have the pneumonia vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The vaccine is generally not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. However, in some cases, your healthcare provider may advise vaccination if the benefits outweigh any potential risks. Our pharmacists can discuss your individual circumstances, the best timing, and any alternative precautions to help protect you and your baby.
How long does the pneumonia vaccine protection last?
The pneumonia vaccine provides long-lasting protection against pneumococcal pneumonia, usually covering multiple years.
Unlike flu vaccines, no annual boosters are required, making it convenient for adults seeking ongoing protection. The immunity helps prevent serious illness and reduces the risk of complications, especially for vulnerable groups.
Can I get the pneumonia vaccine privately instead of through the NHS?
Yes, Dears Pharmacy offers a private pneumonia vaccine across Edinburgh and Fife that is available immediately without the need for an NHS referral. You can have the vaccination at your convenience, following a short consultation with a trained pharmacist. For those seeking the pneumonia vaccine NHS option, eligibility is determined by your GP, which may involve waiting periods or specific health criteria.
What should I know about pneumonia vaccine reactions?
Most people experience mild reactions to the pneumonia vaccine, such as redness, soreness, or swelling at the injection site, a mild fever, fatigue, or minor aches.
Is the pneumonia vaccine safe for older adults or those with health conditions?
Yes, the vaccine is especially recommended for older adults and people with certain health conditions, including asthma, cystic fibrosis, or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
These groups are at higher risk of severe pneumonia and related complications. The vaccine helps provide added protection, reducing the likelihood of hospitalisation or serious illness, and our pharmacists will review your medical history to ensure it is safe and appropriate.
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