Pneumococcal Vaccine in Point Cook
Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infection and meningitis. It hits young children and older adults hardest. The pneumococcal vaccine in Point Cook is often called the pneumonia vaccine, and for many people a single adult dose is all that is needed.
Our GPs check your age, health and past doses, then advise which vaccine you need and whether it is free for you.
Who can have a free pneumococcal vaccine in Point Cook
Under the National Immunisation Program, or NIP, pneumococcal vaccines are free for:
- adults aged 65 and over (one dose)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 25 and over
- adults aged 18 and over with specified medical conditions that raise the risk of severe disease (one dose)
- children at 2, 4 and 12 months, with an extra dose at 6 months for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children with certain medical conditions
- children and teenagers aged over 12 months and under 18 years with specified risk conditions (one dose at diagnosis)
Your GP will tell you if a condition you have counts as a specified risk condition.
Which vaccine you will get
Different vaccines cover different strains of the bacteria. The NIP currently funds Prevenar 20, which covers 20 strains, and Capvaxive, which covers 21. The vaccine and the number of doses depend on your age and health, so the doctor chooses the right one rather than you having to pick.
If you were vaccinated years ago with an older vaccine, bring any record you have. The GP can also look up your history on the Australian Immunisation Register.
What happens at the visit
The appointment starts with a short review of your medical history, current medicines and previous vaccines. The vaccine is then given as an injection, usually in the upper arm, and you wait at the clinic briefly afterwards.
The GP may also check whether you are due for other adult vaccines, such as the flu vaccine or RSV vaccine, and talk about which can be given at the same visit.
Babies and children
Pneumococcal doses are part of the routine childhood schedule, given alongside the other baby vaccines. For the full schedule and developmental checks, see children’s health.
Side effects
Most reactions are mild and gone in a couple of days:
- pain, redness or swelling where the needle went in
- occasionally a small lump at the injection site, which can last for weeks and needs no treatment
- a mild fever
Call 000 for any sign of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat.
Who should not have it
People who have had anaphylaxis after a previous pneumococcal vaccine, or to any part of the vaccine, should not have it. The vaccine is not generally recommended during pregnancy.
Common questions
What if I need more time with the doctor?
Let reception know when you book. If you have several vaccines or health questions to cover, the clinic can set aside a longer appointment.
Is the pneumonia vaccine the same as the pneumococcal vaccine?
Yes. People often call it the pneumonia vaccine because pneumonia is one of the serious illnesses it protects against.
Do I need a booster every few years?
Most people 65 and over now need just one funded dose. The GP will confirm what applies to you, based on your health and past doses.
Will the visit cost anything?
Standard consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card, and the vaccine is free if you are NIP eligible. See Patient Info and Fees for procedure fees.
How do I book?
You can book online or call (03) 7300 7780.
Good to know
Before your appointment
If you are a new patient, please arrive at least five minutes before your consultation and bring:
- Photo ID
- A valid Medicare card
Fees and billing
We offer bulk billing to all patients with a valid Medicare card for standard consultations. All procedures are subject to fees.