The bacterium spreads from person-person via respiratory droplets- if the infected person coughs or sneezes in close proximity to other people, the other people may become infected.

The vaccination for pneumonia is the Pneumococcal Conjugate vaccine, which is for people 5 years or younger. Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is for anyone over 5 years.

It is required for child care and pre-kindergarten.