Pneumococcal disease
Pneumococcal disease refers to infections caused by pneumococcus bacteria. These bacteria can cause ear or sinus infections, but also pneumonia, bloodstream infection, or meningitis, an infection around the brain and spinal cord. Serious infections can cause lasting harm or become life-threatening. The symptoms depend on which part of the body is affected.
Prevention: Vaccine
Symptoms
- Fever and chills
- Cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing with pneumonia
- Headache, stiff neck, confusion, or unusual drowsiness with meningitis
- Ear pain with an ear infection; babies with serious illness may feed poorly
Transmission
- Direct contact with respiratory secretions, including saliva and mucus from another person
Prevention
Vaccination helps prevent pneumococcal disease. Ask a healthcare professional which protection applies to your age and health circumstances. Having had a pneumococcal infection does not prevent every future infection.
Diagnosis and care
Pneumococcal infections are treated with antibiotics. Tests may help identify the bacteria and choose an effective treatment because resistance can occur. Seek prompt medical care if a serious infection is suspected, particularly with breathing difficulty, confusion, or a stiff neck.
Source
- About Pneumococcal Disease
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: February 24, 2026
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
- CDC: Pneumococcal Disease Symptoms and Complications
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source accessed: October 7, 2026
More disease information
-
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection that can be short-lived or become chronic. Many people have no symptoms, including those with long-term infection. Chronic infection can eventually…
-
Human papillomavirus
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses spread through intimate contact. Most infections clear without causing health problems. Some types cause genital warts, while…
-
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. It can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain, especially in young children and other vulnerable…