If you are age 65 or older, ask your doctor for a shot to help protect you from a common type of bacterial pneumonia (“noo-MOHN-yah”). This shot is called PPSV or pneumococcal vaccine.
Pneumonia is a serious illness that can sometimes lead to death, especially in older adults. The good news is that some types of pneumonia can be prevented.
The pneumococcal shot (vaccine) is the best way to prevent the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia. Most people will only need to get the shot once.
Who needs to get a pneumonia shot?
Doctors recommend that the following people get the pneumonia shot:
- People age 65 or older
- People younger than age 65 who have:
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- Asthma
- A breathing condition like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- People who smoke
Talk to your doctor to find out if you need a pneumonia shot.
Are there any side effects?
The pneumonia shot is very safe. Some people may have redness or pain where the shot is given.
What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It can spread from person to person. Pneumonia is a serious illness, and it can lead to infections of the blood or the brain.
Visit these Web sites to learn more about pneumonia: