Pneumococcal immunization for adults

General information
Pneumococcal diseases are a major cause of illness and death, particularly for the very young, the very old and those with certain health conditions. The Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria are responsible for these illnesses, which include pneumonia (lung infections), blood infections and meningitis (brain infections).
The pneumococcal vaccine (PPV23, Pneumovax 23, Pnu-Imune 23) is made from antigens (substances in the body that produce antibodies to help neutralize or destroy foreign substances in the blood) from multiple strains of the bacteria.


Recommendations
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for all people age 65 or older and anyone who:
has a chronic disease, including heart disease, lung disease (especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema), diabetes, cirrhosis, alcoholism and leaks in cerebrospinal fluid
has a weakened immune system due to cancer, cancer treatment, HIV (the virus that causes AIDS), long-term steroid therapy, organ transplantation, kidney disease or a dysfunctional spleen (including sickle cell disease)
is a member of certain Native American and Alaskan populations who have a greater environmental risk for pneumococcal disease
lives in a nursing home or other facility for the chronically ill

Dose
The vaccine is given in one injection.

Effectiveness/booster
The vaccine is about 60 to 70 percent effective in preventing pneumococcal infections. Immunity may last five to 10 years. A second immunization is recommended if you're age 65 or older and it's been more than five years since your first vaccine and that vaccination was received before age 65. Revaccination is also recommended after five years if you're in danger of fatal infections due to a weakened immune system.

Side effects
Side effects are usually mild and most commonly include pain and redness at the injection site. Rarely, side effects may include fever, muscle aches and a severe reaction at the injection site. An allergic reaction is possible, but is also rare.

Who should wait to receive the vaccine
The vaccine may be postponed if you have a moderate to severe acute illness.

Who should not receive the vaccine
You should not receive the vaccine if you've had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the vaccine or any of its components.

Pregnancy-specific information
The vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy because the effect of the vaccine on the fetus is unknown. However, your doctor may consider vaccination if you're at high risk for serious pneumococcal disease.