Chelsea Green Pharmacy
When preparing for an overseas trip, especially to regions with limited healthcare access or a higher risk of infectious diseases, vaccinations are a crucial part of your pre-travel checklist. Among these, the pneumonia vaccine is often recommended, particularly for older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those heading to high-risk environments.
At our travel clinic, we regularly administer pneumonia vaccines to travellers looking to protect themselves before departure. If you’re considering the vaccine, or have already booked your appointment, it’s completely normal to wonder about potential side effects.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect after your pneumonia jab, when to seek medical advice, and why the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Why Get the Pneumonia Vaccine Before Travelling?
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by various bacteria, viruses, or fungi. In many cases, the bacterial form (pneumococcal pneumonia) can lead to severe complications, hospitalisation, or even death, especially in people with weakened immune systems, respiratory conditions, or the elderly.
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk. It’s especially important if you’re:
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Travelling to countries with low vaccination coverage
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Visiting crowded areas or staying in shared accommodation
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Planning to spend extended time at high altitudes or remote regions
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Living with long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
There are two main types of pneumonia vaccines: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV). The type offered depends on your age, health, and travel plans, and our travel health team will advise you accordingly.
Common Side Effects of the Pneumonia Vaccine
The good news is that most people tolerate the pneumonia vaccine very well. Any side effects tend to be mild and short-lived, similar to those experienced after other routine jabs.
Here’s what you might experience:
1. Soreness or swelling at the injection site
This is the most common reaction. Your arm may feel tender, slightly swollen, or warm to the touch for a day or two after the jab.
2. Mild fever or chills
Some people report feeling a little feverish or chilled the day after vaccination. This is simply your body’s immune system responding to the vaccine.
3. Tiredness or fatigue
It’s normal to feel a bit tired for a day or two after your injection, especially if you’ve received other travel vaccines at the same time.
4. Headache or muscle aches
Mild headaches or general aches may occur, but they tend to settle quickly and can be managed with rest and paracetamol if needed.
5. Loss of appetite or slight nausea
Though less common, a few people feel slightly off their food or mildly nauseous for a short time.
These symptoms usually clear up within 48 hours and don’t require any special treatment. You can still travel as planned, but we recommend getting the jab at least two weeks before departure in case you do feel under the weather.
Rare Side Effects and When to Seek Help
Serious side effects from the pneumonia vaccine are very rare, but as with any medication, allergic reactions are possible. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
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Swelling of the face or throat
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Difficulty breathing
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A widespread rash or hives
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A high fever that doesn’t improve after a couple of days
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are vaccine-related or something else, don’t hesitate to contact your GP or our travel clinic for advice.
Can You Get Pneumonia From the Vaccine?
No, the pneumonia vaccine does not contain live bacteria, so it can’t cause pneumonia. It simply teaches your immune system to recognise and fight off the bacteria if you’re exposed in the future.
Some people confuse post-vaccine fatigue or muscle aches with being ill, but these symptoms are a normal immune response, not an infection.
Final Thoughts Before You Fly
Travelling offers incredible experiences, but it can also expose you to new health risks. The pneumonia vaccine is a powerful tool for protecting your lungs and reducing the risk of serious illness during or after your journey.
While mild side effects are possible, they are generally easy to manage and far less risky than pneumonia itself—especially if you’re heading to a destination where medical care may be limited.
If you’re planning a trip and unsure whether the pneumonia vaccine is right for you, book a consultation with our travel clinic. We’ll review your health, destination, and itinerary to create a personalised vaccination plan tailored to your needs.
Safe travels start with smart preparation. Don’t let preventable illness disrupt your adventure.
Book your travel vaccination appointment today or contact our clinic to learn more:
