Meningitis

Pneumococci (bacteria of the genus Streptococcus pneumoniae) are responsible for a number of serious illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis. Groups such as young children, older people and those with certain underlying medical conditions are particularly at risk of pneumococcal infection. However, the pneumococcal vaccine offers effective protection against the disease. In this article, you will learn why pneumococcal infection can be dangerous, how the vaccine protects you and what you need to bear in mind.