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Pneumococcal infections

Pneumococcal disease is the name for a group of infections caused by a germ called pneumococcus. These infections can be mild, like sinus or ear infections, but some are very serious and can lead to:  

  • Pneumonia – an infection in your lungs  
  • Sepsis – a life-threatening reaction to an infection that can harm your whole body   
  • Meningitis – swelling around your brain and spinal cord which can cause long-term health problems or death  

How does pneumococcal disease spread?  

The germs that cause pneumococcal infection spread easily through coughs and sneezes, or through close contact with spit or mucus.  

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