Pneumonia vaccine: which one do I need?

Last reviewed 2026-10-08

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect you from serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria, such as some kinds of pneumonia and infections of the blood.

Most adults need only one dose of one of the newer vaccines, Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive. If you have already had one of these, you are done.

Is it free for me?

In Ontario, it is free for:

• —Everyone 65 and older. The free vaccine is Capvaxive.
• —Adults 18 to 64 with certain health conditions, such as a weak immune system, a missing spleen, diabetes, long-term heart, lung, liver or kidney disease, or a cochlear implant. The free vaccine is Prevnar 20.

I had a pneumonia vaccine before. Do I need another?

• —Had Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive? No. You are done.
• —Had an older one, Pneumovax 23 or Prevnar 13? You may still need one dose of a newer vaccine. It is usually given at least one year after Pneumovax 23. Whether it is free depends on which vaccine you had and when.

Before your visit

• —Bring your vaccine record. That’s your yellow card, or a printout from your pharmacy or public health. Your doctor needs the vaccine name and the date of each dose.
• —Mention any upcoming treatment that can weaken the immune system, like chemotherapy. The timing may change.

Where can I get it?

At your doctor’s office or public health. Capvaxive (for people 65 and older) is also given at pharmacies.

Worth asking

• —Have I had a pneumonia vaccine before, and which one?
• —Do I need a dose now, or should I wait?
• —Is it free for me, or would I need to pay?
• —Should I get it before my upcoming treatment?

General health information, not medical advice. Please talk with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about what is right for you. In an emergency call 911.