Vaccinations and Infection Prevention

Vaccinations: Your Frontline Defence

Vaccines are one of the most effective tools for preventing serious respiratory infections. Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations protects both you and those around you.

Key Respiratory Vaccines

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Recommended annually for everyone aged 6 months and older. The flu can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic health conditions.

Pneumococcal Vaccine: Protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Recommended for all children under 2, adults 65 and older, and people with certain risk factors.

COVID-19 Vaccine: Helps protect against severe illness from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Recommendations may vary by region and are updated regularly — check with your local health authority.

Everyday Infection Prevention

Beyond vaccination, simple daily habits significantly reduce your risk of respiratory infections: wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (into a tissue or your elbow), stay home when you are unwell, and maintain good overall health through adequate sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.