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Pneumococcal vaccination set to be offered to people experiencing homelessness
The pneumococcal vaccine provides some protection against illnesses caused by pneumococcal bacteria. Pneumococcal bacteria causes pneumococcal infection, which can lead to serious illnesses like pneumonia and bacterial meningitis. Bacteria can also cause other conditions like severe ear infections.
The UK Health Security Agency and NHS England have confirmed an expansion to the pneumococcal vaccination programme. From the 1st October 2026, pneumococcal vaccination should be offered to people aged 16 years and over who are experiencing homelessness (individuals who are rough sleeping or those using hostels or night shelters intended for people experiencing homelessness).
The pneumococcal vaccine can be co-administered with seasonal flu vaccine and all other vaccines for which the individual may be eligible.
NHS England will issue further guidance on the addition of this cohort in due course which we will share on our website. In the meantime, homelessness services should support individuals they are working with to register for a GP.
Original article link: https://homeless.org.uk/news/pneumococcal-vaccination-set-to-be-offered-to-people-experiencing-homelessness/
