There are two types of pneumococcal vaccine that can prevent invasive Streptococcus pneuomoniae infections- the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. These two vaccines provide protection against the most common types of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all children less than 24 months old and for children between 24 and 59 months of age who are at risk of disease. All adults who are older than 65 years of age and persons who are two years of age and older and at high risk for disease (e.g., sickle cell disease, HIV infection, or other conditions that weaken the immune system) should receive the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine.
The best way to prevent the spread of the bacteria is by frequent handwashing and by covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.