Key facts Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae It is a major public health problem worldwide, especially for young children and the elderly It is thought to kill about one million children every year, mainly in low and middle income countries Pneumococcal bacteria can cause various infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections Vaccination is the best way to prevent pneumococcal disease Overview Pneumococcal disease refers to any infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae , also known as pneumococcus. This bacterium lives in the nose and throat and can cause a range of infections, from mild illnesses like ear and sinus infections to serious conditions such as pneumonia and meningitis. Anyone can contract pneumococcal disease, but young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immunity are at higher risk.…