The American Lung Association announced on Mar. 18 that pneumococcal pneumonia leads to about 225,000 hospitalizations among adults in the United States each year and is urging eligible individuals, especially those aged 50 and older, to speak with healthcare providers about vaccination.
This initiative comes as part of an educational campaign launched in partnership with Pfizer to help protect people most at risk from this serious bacterial lung infection. Pneumococcal pneumonia is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and can result in symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Severe cases may cause airway blockage or collapsed lungs and can be life-threatening.
“Pneumococcal pneumonia is more than just a bad cold or minor infection—it can be serious, especially for older adults and those living with certain underlying medical conditions. This disease can strike at any time of year, and if you are at increased risk, now is the right moment to speak with a healthcare provider about protection,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Our goal for this campaign is to ensure people understand their risk and know that vaccination is an effective way to help prevent this disease.”
Adults who have chronic health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma face higher risks of developing pneumococcal pneumonia. In 2023 alone, more than 11 million adults in the U.S. were estimated to have COPD and 23 million had asthma. Having influenza can also increase susceptibility to pneumococcal pneumonia.
The American Lung Association has supported research leading to advances in lung disease treatment and prevention according to its official website. The organization has expanded its reach nationwide through local offices and community initiatives addressing lung diseases according to the official website. It has received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for fiscal management and transparency according to the official website. The association continues its mission through research, education, advocacy efforts aimed at improving lung health according to the official website.
Wimmer serves as president and CEO of the American Lung Association according to the official website. For more information on pneumococcal pneumonia or vaccination recommendations, individuals are encouraged to visit Lung.org/pneumococcal.
