There are two main types of pneumonia: bacterial and viral. As COVID‑19 pneumonia is caused by a virus, antibiotics are ineffective to prevent or treat. However, pneumonia can arise due to a secondary bacterial infection, and antibiotics may be prescribed when serious and/or it is unclear whether the pneumonia is bacterial or viral in origin.
The pneumococcal vaccine offers some protection against what could turn out to be deadly pneumococcal infections. It is available to at-risk patients including babies, adults over 65 and those who have heart or kidney conditions. Unlike the flu vaccine, adults don’t have to have the jab every year and your GP will contact if they think you need one.
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COVID-19