A: Yes, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia.
Pneumonia Vaccination
Protect yourself and your community by getting vaccinated against pneumonia at Rock Ridge Pharmacy. We provide pneumonia vaccines suitable for individuals 65 years and older or immunocompromised.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can fill with fluid or pus. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and can range from mild to life-threatening.
Common symptoms include:
Cough (with phlegm or pus)
Fever
Chills
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Types of Pneumonia Vaccines Available
PCV13 (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
- Who should get it? Adults 65 years and older, and people with certain health conditions.
- Protection: Protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
PPSV23 (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine)
Who should get it? Adults 65 years and older, and people with certain health conditions.
Protection: Protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Prevnar 20 (PCV20)
- Who should get it? Adults 65 years and older, and adults 19-64 years with certain risk conditions should get the vaccine.
- Protection: Protects against 20 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Why Get Vaccinated?
- Prevention of Illness: Reduces the risk of pneumonia, its complications, and potential hospitalization.
- Community Immunity: Helps protect more vulnerable populations, including those who cannot get vaccinated.
Potential Side Effects
Common: Redness or pain at the injection site, mild fever, muscle aches.
Severe: Contact a healthcare professional if severe or persistent symptoms occur.
Precautions and Contraindications
Allergic Reactions: Avoid vaccination if you have had a severe allergic reaction to any component of a pneumonia vaccine in the past.
Feeling Ill: Wait to get vaccinated if you are significantly ill.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pneumonia Vaccination
Visit us at Rock Ridge Pharmacy to get your Pneumonia vaccine. Our dedicated team is here to help you stay healthy and informed throughout the vaccination process.
A: Children younger than 5 years and people with severe, life-threatening allergies to the vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.
A: Pneumonia vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe pneumococcal disease, though no vaccine offers 100% protection.
A: Yes, it is safe to receive both the pneumonia vaccine and the flu vaccine during the same visit.
A: Common side effects include redness or pain at the injection site, mild fever, and muscle aches. Severe side effects are rare but require medical attention.
A: No, pneumonia vaccines are not given annually. The schedule depends on the specific vaccine and the patient’s age and health condition.
A: Yes, the pneumonia vaccine is recommended for people with chronic health conditions as they are at higher risk for severe pneumococcal disease.
A: It typically takes about two to three weeks for the vaccine to provide protection against pneumococcal disease.
A: Yes, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best time for vaccination during pregnancy.
The duration of protection can vary, but generally, a single dose of PPSV23 provides protection for at least five years. PCV13 provides long-lasting immunity, but a healthcare provider may recommend a booster dose based on individual health conditions.
A: PCV13 protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, PPSV23 protects against 23 types, and Prevnar 20 protects against 20 types. Each has specific recommendations based on age and health conditions.
A: While the vaccine significantly reduces the risk, it does not eliminate it completely. Vaccinated individuals who do get pneumonia typically experience milder symptoms.
A: Elderly individuals, especially those 65 and older, are advised to get vaccinated due to their increased risk of severe disease. Prevnar 20 and PPSV23 are specifically recommended for better protection.
A: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe or persistent symptoms after vaccination.