As we head into winter, respiratory illnesses become more common, especially among older adults and people with chronic health conditions. While many are aware of flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, pneumococcal vaccination is another important step in protecting your long-term health, particularly for people aged 70+.
At Qualitas Medical Practice, we believe in keeping our patients informed about all aspects of preventive care, including initiatives like the Pneumococcal Vaccination Recall Program, which helps eligible people stay up to date with their recommended vaccines.
What Is Pneumococcal Disease?
Pneumococcal disease is caused by a type of bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and can lead to serious infections such as1:
- Pneumonia (a lung infection)
- Meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord)
- Sepsis (a life-threatening blood infection)
These conditions can be particularly severe in older adults, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and individuals with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory illness.
What Is the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
Different types of pneumococci are called serotypes. Over 100 serotypes have been identified, but only a limited number cause disease. Pneumococcal vaccines vary in the number of serotypes they cover.
The pneumococcal vaccine helps your immune system build protection against several strains of this bacteria. In Australia, two types of pneumococcal vaccines are currently registered for use2: (i) pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs); and (ii) a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV). These vaccine types are not interchangeable. They do not contain live bacteria, so they cannot cause pneumococcal disease.
The number in the name of each pneumococcal vaccine represents the number of different serotypes it contains3. For example, 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (13vPCV) contains 13 serotypes.
Two pneumococcal vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP): one PCV (13vPCV) and one PPV (23vPPV). 23vPPV is used for additional doses following PCV for certain populations.
Pneumococcal vaccination for all Australians
Who Is Eligible for the Vaccine?
You may be eligible for a free pneumococcal vaccine if4:
Infants and children: Free pneumococcal vaccination is provided through the NIP for infants and children under 5 years of age.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults: Those aged 50 years and over are eligible for free vaccination.
Non-Indigenous adults: Individuals aged 70 years and over are eligible for free vaccination.
People with medical risk conditions: Individuals of all ages with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of pneumococcal disease are also eligible for free vaccination.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, your GP can assess your medical history and provide guidance.
About Pneumococcal Vaccination Recall Programs
Pneumococcal Vaccination Recall Programs are used by many health providers to help ensure eligible patients don’t miss out on their vaccinations. These programs identify patients who meet the criteria and send reminders—such as SMS messages, calls, or letters—to encourage them to book an appointment.
These proactive recall systems are designed to make preventive care easier and more accessible, especially for those most at risk of complications from pneumococcal disease.
Why Vaccination Still Matters
Although adult pneumococcal vaccination rates are improving, coverage is still too low. In 2024, less than half of Australians aged 70 and over were recorded as having received a dose of 13vPCV4. This means many older adults remain unprotected from a potentially serious illness that is largely preventable with vaccination.
By staying informed and talking to your GP, you can take simple steps to protect your health.
What You Can Do
Ask your doctor if you’re eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine
Keep your immunisation record up to date
Encourage eligible family members to speak with their GP
At Qualitas Medical Practice, we support your well-being with evidence-based, preventive care. If you’re unsure about your vaccine status or have questions about respiratory health, book an appointment with your GP today.
References:
[1] Healthdirect, Pneumococcal disease, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/pneumococcal-disease
[2] National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance Australia (NCIRS), Pneumococcal vaccines, https://ncirs.org.au/ncirs-fact-sheets-faqs-and-other-resources/pneumococcal-vaccines-frequently-asked-questions-faqs.
[3]Johnson, H. L., Deloria-Knoll, M., Levine, O. S., Stoszek, S. K., Freimanis Hance, L., Reithinger, R., Muenz, L. R., & O’Brien, K. L. (2010). Systematic evaluation of serotypes causing invasive pneumococcal disease among children under five: the pneumococcal global serotype project. PLoS medicine, 7(10), e1000348. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1000348
[4] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Pneumococcal disease, Australian Immunisation Handbook, updated on 02 July 2025, https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/pneumococcal-disease
