Sepsis

The meningococcal vaccine protects against infection by certain subtypes of meningococcal bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses such as meningitis and septicaemia. These conditions can lead to serious complications. In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about the meningococcal vaccine – who should be vaccinated, which vaccines are available and what side effects may occur, for both children and adults.

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.