Who Should Get Pneumonia Vaccine

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can range from mild to life-threatening. Vaccines are a proven way to prevent certain types of pneumonia and lower your risk of complications. If you’re wondering who should get the pneumonia vaccine, here’s a clear guide by age group and health condition, based on recommendations from the CDC and other credible health organizations.

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Why Get a Pneumonia Vaccine?

Vaccination helps your body recognize and fight off specific bacteria that cause pneumonia, most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae. Benefits include:

• Reducing your chances of hospitalization
• Lowering the risk of severe lung infections
• Protecting people around you by reducing spread

No vaccine is 100% effective, but those who get vaccinated typically experience milder symptoms if they do catch pneumonia.

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Types of Pneumococcal Vaccines

There are two main categories:

1. Conjugate vaccines (PCV):

   • PCV13 (Prevnar 13)
   • PCV15 (Vaxneuvance)
   • PCV20 (Prevnar 20)
     These protect against 13, 15, or 20 strains of pneumococcal bacteria. Conjugate vaccines work well in young children and people with weakened immune systems.

2. Polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23, Pneumovax 23):

   • Covers 23 strains.
     Best for older children, adults, and those with certain chronic conditions.

Your healthcare provider will choose the right vaccine type and schedule based on your age and health status.

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Who Should Get Pneumonia Vaccine by Age

Infants and Young Children

• All infants: Routine immunization with PCV starts at 2 months of age, followed by additional doses at 4, 6, and 12–15 months.
• Catch-up schedule:
  If any dose is missed, catch-up dosing is recommended so long as the child is under 5 years old.

Children and Teens (2–18 years)

• Those with certain medical conditions (see next section) may need additional doses or both PCV and PPSV23.
• Healthy teens generally do not need extra pneumococcal vaccines beyond the routine infant series.

Adults 65 Years and Older

• All adults 65+ should receive at least one dose of PCV (PCV15 or PCV20) followed by PPSV23 if needed.
• If PCV15 is given first, administer PPSV23 at least 1 year later.
• If PCV20 is used, no PPSV23 dose is required afterward for most people.

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Who Should Get Pneumonia Vaccine by Health Condition

Adults aged 19–64 with certain chronic or serious health conditions should consider vaccination because these factors increase the risk of pneumococcal disease.

Chronic Health Conditions

• Chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma requiring daily medication, COPD)
• Chronic heart disease (excluding hypertension alone)
• Diabetes mellitus
• Chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis)
• Chronic kidney disease

Smoking and Alcohol

• Current smokers: Smoking damages lung defenses, raising the risk of pneumonia.
• Heavy drinkers: Excessive alcohol use can weaken immune function.

Immunocompromising Conditions

• HIV infection
• Cancer or cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation)
• Organ or stem cell transplant recipients
• Condition or treatment that lowers resistance to infection (e.g., long-term steroids, certain autoimmune diseases)

Cochlear Implants or CSF Leaks

• People with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks or cochlear implants have a higher risk of pneumococcal meningitis and should be vaccinated.

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Recommended Vaccination Schedules

Adults 19–64 with Risk Factors

• Option A (PCV15 + PPSV23):
  1. PCV15 first
  2. PPSV23 at least 8 weeks later
• Option B (PCV20 alone):
  Single dose of PCV20

Your provider will decide which option is best based on your medical history.

Adults 65+

• If no prior PCV:
  • PCV15 first, then PPSV23 after 1 year
  • Or PCV20 alone
• If PPSV23 received before turning 65:
  • Give PCV15 or PCV20 at least 1 year after the last PPSV23 dose
  • No additional PPSV23 needed after PCV20

Special Notes

• Minimum intervals between doses should be followed for optimal protection.
• Once you complete the recommended series, you typically don’t need routine revaccination unless new guidelines emerge.

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Potential Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days. You might experience:

• Pain, redness or swelling at injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Headache or fatigue

Severe reactions are rare but can include high fever or allergic response. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

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Staying Vigilant: Symptom Checking

If you develop symptoms like persistent cough, fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, consider doing a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker. It can help you decide if you need medical attention. Try it here.

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Speak to a Doctor

This information is intended to guide you—but it doesn’t replace personalized medical advice. If you have any serious symptoms or questions about your risk, speak to a doctor right away. Only a healthcare professional can consider your full medical history and decide on the best vaccine plan for you.

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Key Takeaways

• Who should get pneumonia vaccine?
  • All infants, adults 65+, and people 19–64 with certain risk factors.
• Which vaccine?
  • PCV13, PCV15, PCV20 or PPSV23, based on age and condition.
• When?
  • Follow the recommended schedule and intervals for best protection.
• Side effects are usually mild but watch for severe reactions.
• Symptom checker: For quick guidance, use the free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker.

Preventing pneumonia through vaccination is one of the most effective steps you can take for your lung health. If you’re unsure whether you need a vaccine or have concerns about pneumonia symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional as soon as possible.