Have you and your family members received the pneumococcal vaccine? It’s an important shot to consider. Here’s why.
The pneumococcal vaccine fights potentially life-threatening infections
The vaccine helps protect you from bacteria (called pneumococcus) that can cause several types of infections, including:
- Lung infections (pneumococcal pneumonia)
- Meningitis (an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord)
- Blood infections (bacteremia)
- Middle ear infections (otitis media)
- Sinus infections (sinusitis)
“Most pneumococcal infections are mild. However, lung infections, meningitis and blood infections can be deadly or make you very sick and give you long-term health problems,” says Melanie Ames, FNP, Family Nurse Practitioner at Charlie W. and Golden Bethune Hill Community Health Clinic.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get pneumococcal disease. People at higher risk for serious illness include:
- Children under age two
- Adults, age 65 and older
- Anyone with certain medical conditions, such as heart, lung and kidney disease, diabetes and sickle cell disease
- People who smoke
How do pneumococcal infections spread?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the main way pneumococcal bacteria spread is through direct contact with respiratory droplets and secretions like saliva or mucus. “You can spread the disease when you cough or sneeze. The bacteria often spread to people living within the same homes or in crowded conditions,” says Ms. Ames. [RS1] “Some people, particularly children, carry the bacteria in their nose or throat without ever becoming ill.”
When are pneumococcal infections most common?
You can get pneumococcal infections at any time of year. But they’re most common in the winter and early spring when respiratory illnesses are more widespread.
What are the symptoms of pneumococcal disease?
Your symptoms depend on what body part is infected. Symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Cough
- Ear pain
- Fever and chills
- Irritability
- Joint pain
- Stiff neck
- Sleeplessness
Who should get pneumococcal vaccines? And when?
The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccines for:
- All children younger than age 5
- All adults age 65 and older
- People of other ages with certain medical conditions and risk factors
However, not everyone is eligible. For example, if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine, or if you have life-threatening allergies, you should not get certain types of pneumococcal vaccines. Talk with your provider about whether the vaccine is right for you or your loved one.
How often do you need a pneumococcal shot?
You don’t need a pneumococcal shot every year. There are two main types of vaccines, and they help protect you for many years. Most children get their shots during a recommended immunization timeline in early childhood. Adults may need a two-shot series, depending on whether they’ve had the vaccine earlier in life. Older children and people with certain health conditions may follow a different vaccination schedule. Talk with your provider about which vaccines are best for you and when you should have them.
How effective are pneumococcal vaccines?
Although vaccines don’t prevent all pneumococcal infections, they do protect against the most common types. If you do get a pneumococcal infection, chances are it will be less severe if you have the vaccine.
Can adults get the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as the flu vaccine?
Yes, if your provider recommends it, you can get a pneumococcal vaccine during the same visit that you get your flu shot. (The flu shot offers important protection too because having the flu raises your risk of getting a pneumococcal infection.)
Can children get the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as the flu vaccine?
Maybe not. Young children may have a greater risk for seizures caused by fever after a pneumococcal vaccine if they receive it at the same time as an inactivated influenza vaccine. That’s according to the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Again, check with your provider for the best timing.
Riverside primary care providers are here to help. To discuss your vaccine needs, make an appointment with Ms. Ames today!
