Could The Pneumonia Vaccine Cause This Reaction?

Posted on Tue, 13 Oct 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 Answered on

Wed, 4 Jun 2025 Last reviewed on

Question : My sister had a final pneumonia shot yesterday of a series of vaccinations. She came home last night having chills, mild sore throat and fatigue. She is not improved today. Could the pneumonia vaccine cause this reaction?

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

vaccines may sometimes cause fever and flu-like symptoms. The pneumococcal vaccine is no exception. Such reactions are typically short-lived. If she doesn't improve within the next 24-48 hours then perhaps another cause will have to be considered.

If she develops serious symptoms then she should see her doctor without any delay.

Best Regards,
Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis,
Internal Medicine Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar