Pneumococcal infections
Pneumococcal infections are caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, and range from mild to severe.
Your symptoms will vary, depending on the type of pneumococcal infection you have. Symptoms include fever, chills and a headache.
There are more than 90 different strains of S. pneumoniae, and some are much more likely to cause serious infection (virulent) than others.
There are several ways to diagnose pneumococcal infections, and the tests you have will depend on your symptoms.
The treatment you receive depends on whether you have an invasive or non-invasive pneumococcal infection. Antibiotics may be used to treat a serious infection.
Children under two should receive the PCV as part of their childhood immunisation schedule. Simple hygiene precautions can also help to prevent infection.