The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published updates to its Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations. The key revision is its expanded eligibility requirements of individuals advised to receive the vaccination, which are:
- Children aged five and younger
- All adults aged 50 and older
- Adults aged 19–49 with certain underling medical conditions and risk factors, including chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, diabetes and history of smoking.
According to the American Lung Association (ALA), an estimated 150,000 people are hospitalized due to pneumococcal pneumonia each year in the United States. Adults aged 50 and older are 6.4 times more likely to develop pneumococcal pneumonia than younger adults, and adults aged 65 and older are more than ten times more likely to be hospitalized for the disease.
The ALA is partnering with Pfizer to raise awareness about the updated guidelines and help protect people from this potentially serious lung disease. Both organizations encourage qualifying and at-risk individuals to get vaccinated.
“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,” said ALA President and CEO Harold Wimmer in a press release. “Thankfully, vaccination is available to help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia.”
Unlike some illnesses, the ALA said having pneumococcal disease previously does not prevent an individual from getting again. Similarly, people who have been vaccinated for it in the past may require additional vaccinations. Wimmer said individuals who meet the CDC recommendations should talk to their health care provider for additional guidance.
