Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to severe health complications, including meningitis, pneumonia, and sepsis. While it affects people of all ages, older adults and those with certain health conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing severe illness. Fortunately, pneumococcal vaccines offer an effective way to prevent these life-threatening infections. These vaccines protect against specific strains of pneumococcal bacteria. They are commonly used for infants, children, and certain adults at higher risk of disease.