Side effects from pneumococcal vaccines are usually mild and go away in a few days.
PCV13 vaccine
In adults, side effects of the PCV13 vaccine may include:
- Pain, swelling, or redness where the shot was given
- Fever
- Not feeling hungry
- Feeling tired
- Headache
Side effects in children may include:
- Redness or swelling where the shot was given
- Drowsiness
- Not wanting to eat
- Mild fever
- Fussing
Young children who get the PCV13 vaccine at the same time as the flu shot could be at increased risk for seizures (sudden, unusual movements or behavior) caused by fever.
PPSV23 vaccine
Side effects of the PPSV23 vaccine may include:
- Pain or redness where the shot was given
- Fever
- Muscle aches
Like any medicine, there’s a very small chance that pneumococcal vaccines could cause a serious reaction. Keep in mind that getting a pneumococcal vaccine is much safer than getting pneumococcal disease