The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released the latest surveillance data for the 2025/26 season, showing that cases of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in young children have remained stable. The report comes as the NHS continues a significant transition in how it protects infants and older adults against the bacteria.
Pneumococcal bacteria can lead to life-threatening conditions, including meningitis, septicaemia (blood poisoning), and pneumonia. While vaccines have drastically reduced the incidence of these diseases, health officials closely monitor “serotype replacement”—a process where strains of the bacteria not covered by current vaccines begin to circulate more widely.
The latest cumulative weekly data confirms that for children under the age of two, the number of IPD cases caused by strains not included in the standard PCV13 vaccine is similar to levels recorded during the same period in 2024/25.
Changes to the infant vaccination schedule
Parents of infants born in 2026 are being reminded of recent changes to the routine immunisation schedule. As of July 2025, the timing for the first dose of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) moved from 12 weeks of age to 16 weeks.
Under the current “1+1” schedule, infants receive their primary dose at 16 weeks, followed by a booster dose at one year old. This timing is designed to maintain high levels of population-level protection while allowing the NHS to monitor the effectiveness of the programme against evolving bacterial strains.
Adult vaccine transition in 2026
A major shift is also underway for older residents and those in high-risk clinical groups. Throughout 2026, the older pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) is being phased out in favour of a newer, more comprehensive version known as PCV20 (Prevenar 20).
The transition is taking place as stocks of the older vaccine are depleted. PCV20 provides protection against 20 different strains of the bacteria, offering broader coverage than some previous versions.
Adults become eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine when they turn 65. Unlike the annual flu jab, most adults only require a single dose of the pneumococcal vaccine for long-term protection, though individuals with specific long-term health conditions may require different intervals.
Symptoms and official advice
While the vaccination programme is highly effective, health officials urge the public to remain aware of the symptoms of invasive pneumococcal disease, particularly in vulnerable age groups.
In infants, symptoms of serious infection can include a high fever, irritability, poor feeding, or a bulging soft spot on the head. In older adults, pneumonia is a common presentation, often involving a severe cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
Vaccinations are typically arranged through GP surgeries. The UKHSA advises that anyone who believes they or their child may have missed a scheduled dose should contact their local practice to ensure their records are up to date. Most vaccinations in the 2026 schedule will be administered alongside other routine immunisations to ensure maximum uptake and protection.
