How common is pneumococcal disease in the elderly?

Question

Hi doctor,

My doctor recommended I get the pneumococcal vaccine, but I am not sure why. I am 65 years old and generally healthy. How common is pneumococcal disease in my age group? What are the risks if I do not get vaccinated? I have heard there are two different vaccines - do I need both? Are there any side effects I should be aware of? Also, I got a flu shot last month - is it safe to get the pneumococcal vaccine so soon after? I want to protect my health, but I am hesitant about getting too many vaccines at once.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It is contagious and may cause severe illness, so early diagnosis and treatment are important. Its presentation can be sinusitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. Patients who are at increased risk include:

1. Patients with cochlear implants.

2. Patients with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.

3. Patients with diabetes.

4. Patients with kidney disorders and a history of splenectomy.

5. Immunocompromised conditions like HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) or post-organ transplantation.

6. Elderly people.

7. Chronic alcoholics and smokers.

Pneumococcal vaccine is advised for children and all individuals who are above 65 years of age, irrespective of their health status. It is quite effective in preventing the occurrence of pneumonia due to Streptococcus Pneumoniae.

Vaccination schedules vary between children and adults, and they shall be followed as per the national policy. It is recommended for children and the elderly and must be taken by all such individuals. This vaccine is quite safe, and only mild side effects like fever and local site pain can occur.

There are two main types of pneumococcal vaccines recommended for adults:

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13 or PCV20): PCV13 protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23): PPSV23 protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria and is often given after the conjugate vaccine.

Recommended schedule: For most adults over 65, it is typically recommended to get one dose of PCV20 or a sequence of PCV13 followed by PPSV23 after a certain interval. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your health history and any previous vaccinations. Since both pneumococcal and flu vaccines can be given on a single visit, it is safe for you to take the pneumococcal vaccine, even if you had the flu vaccine one month ago.

Getting vaccinated is a proactive step to safeguard health. It is always a good idea to discuss any concerns or questions with a doctor to ensure you are following the best plan for your health needs. Measures for the prevention of pneumonia in general include:

1. Regular vaccination should be given two to four weeks after recovery from pneumonia, including COVID-19, pneumococcal, and influenza vaccinations, if not taken already.

2. Maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

3. Ensure the consumption of a balanced and nutritious diet.

I hope this information helps you.

Revert in case of queries.

Regards.