Is the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine safe?
Yes, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is safe. It does not contain living bacteria or viruses. In Canada, vaccines must undergo laboratory and field-testing, and pass a rigorous licensing procedure with the federal government before being introduced. Once a vaccine is approved, every lot is tested for safety and quality. In addition, side effects are continuously monitored. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine should not be given if the person has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or to a component of this vaccine.
