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Pneumonia Vaccine Side Effects
Although side effects with the pneumonia vaccine are possible, most people tolerate it well. If adverse reactions do occur, they tend to be minor. Problems that have been reported with these products include redness at the injection site, fever, irritability, and drowsiness; each vaccine has slightly different side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop serious problems, such as hives, paralysis, or wheezing.
As with all vaccines, side effects are possible with the pneumonia vaccine (Pneumovax®, Prevnar 13®). However, not everyone who receives the vaccination will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible pneumonia vaccine side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
Two different pneumonia vaccines are available: Pneumovax (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) and Prevnar 13 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine).
The most common side effects seen with Pneumovax are injection site reactions (such as redness, pain, warmth, swelling, or a lump). These reactions occur in about 50 percent of people.
(Click Pneumovax Side Effects for more information, including details about less common problems.)
The most common side effects seen with Prevnar 13 in children include:
- Irritability -- in up to 85.6 percent of children
- Sleeping more than usual -- up to 71.5 percent
- Tenderness at the injection site -- up to 64.7 percent
- Decreased appetite -- up to 51 percent.
(Click Prevnar 13 Side Effects or Prevnar Side Effects for more detailed information, including possible side effects in adults.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD