In the lead-up to World Pneumonia Day on November 12, 2024, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and the American Lung Association are collaborating to highlight the importance of pneumococcal vaccination for US adults aged 50 and older. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of pneumonia and related complications.
Pneumococcal pneumonia is identified as a primary bacterial cause of hospitalized pneumonia in the United States. Older adults and individuals with lung disease or chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe illness or death from this type of pneumonia. In October 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidelines, recommending that US adults begin receiving vaccinations against pneumococcal disease at age 50 instead of 65.
“The new recommendation gives more US adults the opportunity to help protect themselves from pneumococcal disease, which can lead to serious illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections,” stated NFID Medical Director Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., MD. “Vaccination is our best defense against these serious diseases. We want everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this opportunity to help lower their risk.”
Albert Rizzo, MD, chief medical officer for the American Lung Association emphasized: “Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt a person’s life for weeks, and when severe, it can result in hospitalization and can even be life-threatening. Now is a great time to talk with a healthcare professional about pneumococcal vaccination because it is respiratory virus season and having influenza (flu) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can increase a person’s chances of getting pneumococcal disease. Being protected with vaccination lowers the risk of disease.” He added that they are honored to partner with NFID in encouraging eligible individuals to get vaccinated.
Despite concerns about vaccine side effects among some at-risk groups, NFID President-Elect Monica M. Farley, MD reassured: “We want patients to understand that potential side effects associated with pneumococcal vaccines are rare and are much less severe than the diseases they prevent.” She urged those aged 50 years or older or with other risk factors to get vaccinated and consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns.
The CDC provides detailed recommendations on who should receive pneumococcal vaccines and when they should be administered.
Pneumococcal disease results from bacteria known as Streptococcus pneumoniae attacking various body parts. This can lead to serious conditions like pneumonia when affecting lungs; sepsis when invading the bloodstream; or meningitis when targeting brain linings—often necessitating hospitalization.
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases was established in 1973 as a non-profit organization dedicated to educating both public and professionals about infectious diseases throughout different life stages. Meanwhile, The American Lung Association focuses on improving lung health through education advocacy research while aiming towards defeating lung cancer ensuring clean air enhancing quality-of-life promoting tobacco-free futures across communities nationwide.
