02/13/2026 Public Health Education Topic: Streptococcus Pneumoniae

Per CDC Español

Key points

• Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.

• Anyone can get pneumococcal disease, but certain people are at increased risk.

• Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against pneumococcal disease.

Types

S. pneumoniae bacteria can cause many types of infections, including:

• Pneumonia (lung infection)

• Meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord)

• Bacteremia (bloodstream infection)

• Otitis media (middle ear infection)

• Sinusitis (sinus infection)

People spread pneumococcal bacteria to others through direct contact with respiratory secretions, like saliva or mucus.

Prevention

• People can get pneumococcal disease more than once.

  Healthcare providers generally don't prescribe antibiotics after exposure to help prevent someone from getting a pneumococcal infection.

  However, there are steps people can take to help protect themselves.

  Vaccination

  Vaccination is the best way to prevent pneumococcal disease. CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for

  • All children younger than 5 years old

  • People 5 through 49 years old with certain risk conditions

  • Adults 50 years or older

To learn more please visit: About Pneumococcal Disease | Pneumococcal | CDC