Pneumococcal Vaccine (23-valent)

The Pneumococcal (23-valent) Vaccination Service from Ways Pharmacy is a private, pharmacist-administered immunisation with the PPV23 polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax 23) against 23 serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae, administered by appointment at Ways Pharmacy, London (GPhC-registered), for adults aged 65 and over and at-risk groups.

Key facts

Who should consider it

• Adults aged 65 and over wanting protection against pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive disease
• People with long-term heart, lung, liver or kidney conditions, or diabetes
• People without a working spleen (asplenia or splenic dysfunction) or with sickle cell disease
• People with a weakened immune system, including those on immunosuppressive treatment

Not suitable for: people with a confirmed allergy to any vaccine component; people who are acutely unwell with a fever on the day (postpone until recovered). The pharmacist will confirm suitability at your appointment.

How to book

1. Select the service and complete payment online.
2. Call Ways Pharmacy Holborn on 020 8106 7084 to arrange a convenient appointment.
3. At the appointment, the pharmacist reviews your age, medical history and any previous pneumococcal doses to confirm suitability.
4. The vaccine is administered into the upper arm, followed by a short observation period.

Frequently asked questions

How many doses of the PPV23 vaccine do I need?

Most healthy adults need only a single dose at age 65, which is expected to give long-lasting protection. People at higher risk, such as those without a working spleen, may need an additional dose or repeat doses over time. The pharmacist will confirm the right schedule for you.

What is the difference between PPV23 and PCV13?

PPV23 is a polysaccharide vaccine covering 23 pneumococcal serotypes and is mainly used for adults 65 and over and at-risk adults. PCV13 (Prevenar 13) is a conjugate vaccine covering 13 serotypes that produces a stronger immune response in infants and certain high-risk groups. Some people are advised to have both; the pharmacist will explain the right approach for your circumstances.

Where do I get vaccinated?

The vaccine is administered by a GPhC-registered pharmacist at Ways Pharmacy, 77 Southampton Row, Holborn, London WC1B 4ET, near the British Museum and Holborn station. You can read more on our Holborn branch page.

Can I have it at the same time as my flu jab?

Yes. The pneumococcal vaccine can be given at the same visit as the seasonal flu vaccine, in different arms. Tell the pharmacist about any vaccines you have had recently so timing can be planned.

Is this an NHS service?

No. This is a private vaccination service. The NHS offers pneumococcal vaccination free to eligible groups; this service is for people who prefer a private route or fall outside current NHS eligibility.

Safety / who should not

• Administered by a GPhC-registered pharmacist in a private consulting room
• Clinical screening on the day to confirm suitability and check for acute illness
• Not given to anyone with a confirmed allergy to a vaccine component
• 15-minute observation period after the injection
• Common side effects (injection-site soreness, mild fever, tiredness) usually settle within 1 to 2 days

References

• NHS — Pneumococcal vaccine
• Pneumovax 23 — Patient Information Leaflet (emc)

* Subject to availability. Eligibility criteria and clinical exclusions apply. This is a private service and is not provided by the NHS.