Frequently Asked Questions

Children at risk:

• Children younger than 2 years old
• Children in group child care
• Children who have certain illnesses (sickle cell disease, HIV infection, chronic heart or lung conditions)
• Children with cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks.
• Some American Indian, Alaska Native and African American children may be at an increased risk for the disease.

Adults at risk:

• Adults 65 years or older
• Adults with chronic illnesses (lung, heart, liver or kidney disease, asthma, diabetes and alcoholism)
• Adults living in nursing homes or any other long-term care facility
• Adults with cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks
• Adults who smoke cigarettes

There are many types of pneumococcal disease. Symptoms and complications depend on the part of the body that is infected.

Lung Infection

Pneumococcal pneumonia (lung infection) is the most common serious form of pneumococcal disease. Symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Cough
• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain

Older adults with pneumococcal pneumonia may experience confusion or low alertness, rather than the more common symptoms listed above.

Meningitis

Pneumococcal meningitis is an infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include:

• Stiff neck
• Fever
• Headache
• Photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)
• Confusion

In babies, meningitis may cause poor eating and drinking, low alertness, and vomiting.

Blood Infections

Pneumococcal bacteremia is a blood infection. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Low alertness

Sepsis

Sepsis is a complication caused by the body's overwhelming and life-threatening response to an infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Symptoms include:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Shortness of breath
• High heart rate
• Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Clammy or sweaty skin

Ear Infections

Pneumococcus bacteria cause up to half of middle ear infections (otitis media). Symptoms include:

• Ear pain
• A red, swollen ear drum
• Fever
• Sleepiness