Each year, approximately 150,000 individuals in the US are hospitalized due to pneumococcal pneumonia, a prevalent form of bacterial pneumonia. To combat this potentially severe lung disease, the American Lung Association has partnered with Pfizer to increase awareness about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) updated recommendations on pneumococcal vaccination. They emphasize the importance of vaccination for those at risk.
The CDC has expanded pneumococcal vaccination recommendations to include broader groups. The updated advice suggests vaccination for all adults aged 50 and older, and adults aged 19-49 who have specific underlying medical conditions such as chronic lung or heart disease, diabetes, or those who smoke.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, noted, "Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike any time of year, and when it does, the disease can disrupt a person’s life for weeks and, in severe cases, result in hospitalization or even death. Thankfully, vaccination is available to help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia." He further recommends speaking with healthcare providers regarding additional vaccinations if one has been previously vaccinated, as it may be necessary depending on earlier vaccination details.
Pneumococcal pneumonia can quickly manifest with symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, and difficulty breathing. It poses increased risks for adults with chronic conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, diabetes, or chronic heart disease. Data indicates that adults aged 50 and older are significantly more likely to develop pneumococcal pneumonia than younger adults. The risk for hospitalization among those aged 65 and older is even more pronounced.
The American Lung Association and Pfizer are focused on raising awareness and ensuring at-risk populations have access to valuable information about pneumococcal pneumonia and vaccination options. Additional information can be found at Lung.org/pneumococcal.
