The spleen has a specific job, filtering certain bacteria, particularly those with a polysaccharide capsule. Without it, or with functional asplenia (sickle cell disease, some autoimmune conditions, splenic radiation), your risk of severe, life-threatening sepsis from a handful of specific organisms is significantly elevated. Vaccination is one of the most important things you can do to mitigate that risk.
The core vaccinations
- Pneumococcal, the highest-priority vaccine. A conjugate dose followed by a polysaccharide dose at least 8 weeks later, with boosters as recommended by your specialist.
- Meningococcal ACWY, two doses 8 weeks apart, with 5-yearly boosters.
- Meningococcal B, two doses at least 8 weeks apart.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), single dose if not previously vaccinated.
- Annual influenza, every year.
- Routine adult schedule, MMR, dTpa, COVID-19 boosters per ATAGI advice.
If splenectomy is planned
Vaccinations are ideally given at least 2 weeks before elective splenectomy so your immune response has time to develop while you still have a functioning spleen. If splenectomy was unplanned (trauma, emergency), vaccinations are still given but as soon as you’re medically stable, around 2 weeks post-surgery is a typical window.
Beyond vaccines
Vaccination is one layer, the others matter too:
- Daily antibiotic prophylaxis (penicillin or alternative), as advised by your GP, particularly for the first 1–2 years and lifelong in children.
- Standby antibiotics for any febrile illness while travelling or away from medical care.
- Medic-alert identification (bracelet or wallet card).
- Registration with Spleen Australia, a national support and recall service that helps you stay on top of boosters.
- Earlier and lower threshold for medical review when unwell, even mild fevers need a closer look in people without a spleen.
Travel
People without a spleen have additional considerations for travel, malaria areas in particular are higher risk. Book a travel consult at least 8 weeks before departure so we can map an appropriate schedule and refer for malaria prophylaxis through your GP.
Sources & further reading
General information only. This article is educational and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Your immuniser will confirm eligibility and contraindications on the day.
TGA advertising compliance. Vaccines are referred to by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Specific brands and registered indications are discussed at the consultation.