Who Should Get The Pneumonia Vaccine: Pneumonia is a serious infection, which affects the lungs and can sometimes prove fatal. To prevent this, doctors recommend taking pneumonia vaccine, also known as pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine provides protection against infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. Apart from pneumonia, this bacteria can also cause serious infections related to ear, sinus and blood.

Two types of vaccines available

There are two major types of pneumococcal vaccines currently available. The first is pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, which includes PCV15, PCV20 and PCV21. The second is pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. These are used according to the age and health condition of the person. Although this vaccine cannot completely prevent all types of pneumonia, it reduces the risk of infection to a great extent. If a person gets pneumonia even after getting the vaccine, the disease is usually less severe.

Who should get the vaccine?

According to the advice of America’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people aged 50 years or older must get this vaccine. Apart from this, children below 5 years of age, people with weak immune systems and patients suffering from some chronic diseases may also require it.

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Which people are most at risk?

According to experts, the risk of pneumonia is higher in people suffering from diseases like heart disease, sickle cell disease, chronic liver disease, diabetes, asthma, emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Similarly, patients undergoing chemotherapy, people who have undergone organ transplant and people infected with HIV/AIDS also fall in the high-risk category. The risk of infection also increases in those who smoke and consume excessive alcohol, because these habits affect the body’s immune system.

Is the vaccine given every year?

The best thing about pneumonia vaccine is that it does not have to be administered every year like the flu vaccine. For most people, a single dose of the vaccine provides long-term protection. However, some people above 65 years of age and patients with special health conditions may need an additional dose. It is important to consult a doctor in this regard. This vaccine is given in four doses for children. Generally its doses are given at the age of 2, 4, 6 and 12 to 15 months. If a child’s vaccination is not completed on time, it can be completed later as per the doctor’s advice.

What are its side effects?

As far as side effects are concerned, they are generally mild. There may be complaints like pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, mild fever, loss of appetite and muscle pain. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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