Pneumonia Vaccination

Protection against a serious lung infection that can affect people of all ages.

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can range from mild to severe. It remains a significant health concern, contributing to around 5% of deaths annually in Ireland — particularly among older adults, young children, and those with chronic health conditions.

A common cause of pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that can also lead to other serious infections such as meningitis and sepsis. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to reduce your risk.

At McCauley Pharmacy, our pharmacists offer the Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine, which protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria.

Price: €50
Availability: Available by appointment in participating McCauley Pharmacies

Why consider the pneumonia vaccine?

• Protects against a serious lung infection and related complications
• Reduces your risk of hospitalisation from pneumonia and other pneumococcal illnesses
• Recommended for adults over 65 and those with underlying health risks
• Can be given at any time of year and alongside the flu vaccine

Who is eligible for the pneumonia vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for:

• All adults aged 65 and over
• Adults aged 18+ with certain health conditions, including:
  • Diabetes
  • Chronic heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease
  • Weakened immune system (e.g. cancer, transplant, HIV)
  • Smokers or those with alcohol dependency
  • People regularly exposed to fumes (e.g. welders)

Your McCauley pharmacist will advise if the vaccine is suitable for you or refer you to your GP if necessary.

What to expect

• Book your appointment in a participating McCauley Pharmacy
• The vaccine is administered in a private consultation room by a trained pharmacist
• You’ll be asked to remain in the pharmacy for 15 minutes afterward for observation
• The vaccine begins building protection within 2–3 weeks
• A booster dose is rarely needed

Aftercare and possible side effects

Like all vaccines, mild side effects are possible, including:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Tiredness or low-grade fever
• Mild flu-like symptoms

These usually settle within a day or two. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare, and our pharmacists are fully trained to manage them.

Your Next Step to Better Health

Talk to your pharmacist today, or click on the link to book a pneumonia vaccination in one of our participating McCauley Pharmacies.