Should You Get the Pneumonia Vaccine?

Did you know that every year 18,000+ people over the age of 65 die from pneumococcal disease? While everyone is at risk of getting Pneumonia, it is especially dangerous for elderly adults, those with serious health conditions, and young children. Thankfully, this illness is preventable. For those ages 65 and up, the Centers for Disease Control recommends getting vaccinated twice. Find out more about the Pneumonia and its vaccine below.

What is Pneumonia?

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can cause pneumonia.” The disease is spread person-to-person.

The most common symptoms of pneumonia are:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Shaking chills
  • Shortness of breath

There are five main causes of pneumonia:

  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Mycoplasmas
  • Other infectious agents (i.e. fungi)
  • Various chemicals

What Vaccine Should an Adult Aged 65+ Get?

The CDC recommends those who are 65 years or older receive PCV13 first, followed by a dose of PPSV23, at least one year later. PCV13 stands for Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine and is designed for all infants and children, and adults 19 years and older at high risk for disease. PPSV23 stands for Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine and is designed for all adults 65 years and older and those two years of age and older at high risk for disease. The reason for two shots is the PCV13 is effective in preventing pneumonia caused by S. pneumoniae but it does not protect from pneumonia caused by other bacteria. If you’ve already received a dose of PCV13 at a younger age, another dose of PCV13 is not recommended.

No matter your age, you should discuss the pneumonia vaccine(s) with your physician. Find out if it is right for you. Take action today to prevent death from this dangerous disease.

 

.