Pneumococcal Vaccine in Werribee
Harpley Doctors gives the pneumococcal vaccine in Werribee, at our clinic in Harpley Town Centre. Pneumococcal disease can cause pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections, and older adults and people with some medical conditions are most at risk. Eligibility changed in June 2026, so more people now qualify for a free dose. Here is who is eligible, what to expect and how to book.
Who gets a free pneumococcal vaccine in Werribee
Since 22 June 2026, the Department of Health pneumococcal guidance lists these groups as free under the National Immunisation Program:
- adults aged 65 and over: one dose
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 25 and over
- adults aged 18 and over with specified risk conditions: one dose
- children at 2, 4 and 12 months, with an extra dose at 6 months for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children with risk conditions
- people aged over 12 months and under 18 years with specified risk conditions: one dose at diagnosis
The age for older adults was lowered from 70 to 65, and chronic lung disease (COPD) and chronic liver disease were added to the risk conditions. The Australian Immunisation Handbook has the full list.
Do I need another dose?
Adults now have a single dose of one vaccine, and the older second vaccine is no longer needed for any adult. If you have had pneumococcal vaccines before, your GP will check your history before recommending anything more.
Living with a long-term condition
Risk conditions include long-term heart, lung, kidney and liver disease and a weakened immune system. If you live with one, your GP can give the pneumococcal vaccine during a routine visit and include vaccination in your ongoing care through chronic condition management, alongside regular health checks.
What happens at your appointment
Your GP confirms eligibility and gives the injection. Afterwards you stay at the clinic for at least 15 minutes, as the Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends, and you should not drive during that time. The vaccine can be given on the same day as your flu vaccine. All consultations and procedures at Harpley Doctors are bulk billed; see Patient Info and Fees.
Booking your pneumococcal vaccine
To make an appointment, book online or call (03) 8731 1330. We are open seven days and welcome walk-ins, and new patients can fill in the new patient form first. While you are here, ask whether your whooping cough booster or COVID-19 vaccine is due; our Immunisation page has the full range.
Frequently asked questions
Is the pneumococcal vaccine free at 65?
Yes. Since 22 June 2026, adults aged 65 and over can have one free dose under the National Immunisation Program.
Is pneumococcal the same as a pneumonia vaccine?
It protects against pneumococcal bacteria, a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections. It does not prevent every type of pneumonia.
Can I have it with my flu shot?
Yes, the two can be given at the same appointment.
Other services
Book your pneumococcal vaccine
Book online or call reception, and bring your Medicare card.