Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that is more common in older adults, infants, young children, and some people with chronic health problems. Two vaccines offer protection against pneumococcal pneumonia. Find out more about pneumonia and the vaccines by taking this quiz.
1. Pneumonia can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
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Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs from an infection. The most common causes are bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae are responsible for the most common form of pneumonia (pneumococcal pneumonia). It can also cause infections in the blood and the brain.
2. You should get pneumonia vaccines every year, just as you do for the flu.
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In the U.S., two types of pneumococcal vaccine are available. Neither one is given every year. These vaccines protect against pneumococcal pneumonia. Talk with your healthcare provider about which pneumococcal vaccine and which vaccine schedule is best for you.
3. If you've already had pneumonia, you don't need to get a vaccine.
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All adults 65 years and older should get the pneumonia vaccine. It is also advised for children under 2 years old and people with chronic health conditions or who have a weak immune system. This is true even if they have had pneumonia before. That's because there are many types (strains) of pneumonia. Having
one type doesn't protect you against getting another type. Talk with your healthcare provider about the pneumonia vaccine and your healthcare needs.
4. Only people older than 65 should get these vaccines.
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People ages 65 and older and children under 2 years old should have the vaccines against pneumonia. But anyone who has certain chronic health problems or a weak immune system should also be vaccinated. These problems include heart disease, lung disease, sickle cell disease, and diabetes. Talk with your healthcare provider if you believe you might be at risk.
5. The pneumonia shots can't cause pneumonia.
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That's because the vaccines are not made from whole bacteria. They are made from parts that are not infectious. Side effects from the pneumonia shots are mild. These include some swelling and soreness at the site of the shot, fever, muscle aches, and joint pain.
6. People 65 and older are more likely to get pneumococcal pneumonia.
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People at the highest risk of getting pneumococcal disease are children younger than 2 years old, people with certain chronic health problems, people older than age 65, people with a weak immune system, and people who smoke cigarettes.
7. A common sign of pneumonia is having trouble breathing.
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Common signs of pneumonia include a coughthat makes yellow, green, or bloody mucus, chest pain when breathing deeply or coughing, fever, sweating, chills, and trouble breathing.
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Author: Sinovic, Dianna
Online Medical Reviewer: Gotwals, Jessica RN BSN MPH
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