Pneumococci are prevalent in our community, and many healthy people carry the bacteria in their nose and throat, even though they are not sick themselves. These people are known as the carriers.11 they may spread the disease to children by sneezing or coughing, putting them at risk of developing serious infections. Your children could also get infected by putting their hands in their mouths, after coming into contact with the bacteria. The disease can also be spread when children touch an infected object such as a cup, toothbrush, toy or book.12