Infection with this bacteria can be fatal, especially if it occurs in a person who has a heart condition, diabetes or lung disease. Pneumococcal vaccine should be given to everyone 65 years of age or older. It should also be given to younger people with heart problems, lung disease, diabetes, cirrhosis, kidney problems or certain patients with cancer. The vaccine is given only once, except in persons with certain medical problems. The vaccine is given as a shot.
Many people have a sore arm for a day or two after they get the pneumococcal vaccine.
Tetanus toxoid, which is given as a shot, prevents lockjaw. This illness causes painful muscle spasms, and it can be fatal. The tetanus shot is for everyone - and it's especially important to get a tetanus shot if you have a dirty cut or wound. Some people get a sore arm or a mild fever from the tetanus shot. Diphtheria toxoid is also given as an injection.