Do you need a shot to prevent pneumonia? Dr. DeCaro has the answers

During the winter months, many people think that they have a nasty cold or flu, but it sometimes, it turns out to be pneumonia – an illness that can be aggressive in certain people. A vaccine can help lower your chance of contracting pneumonia. While the vaccine does not prevent all cases of pneumonia, it reduces the severity of the disease.

That is especially important for older adults and if you have certain medical conditions that put you at greater risk for complications.

Now is the time to talk to your doctor about your risks and if you need a vaccine to protect you against pneumonia.

Garren DeCaro, M.D., an internal medicine physician with Mercy Health – Lorain, answers your most frequently asked questions about pneumonia and the risks.

What is pneumonia?

While pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, most cases are due to a specific bacteria called streptococcus pneumoniae, more commonly known as pneumococcal pneumonia. Pneumonia is a respiratory lung infection that is often mistaken for the flu. Your lungs become filled with fluid that results in inflammation.

Symptoms are very similar to the flu, but pneumonia can last for weeks and result in very serious complications. Some forms can be treated with antibiotics based on tests that your physician will run to determine the type of pneumonia.

Who is most at risk for pneumonia?

Anyone at any age can get pneumonia, but healthier, younger patients tend to recover more quickly. Adults over age 65, those with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, emphysema, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), patients who have undergone chemotherapy, organ transplant or have HIV or AIDS, are all at greater risk. Additionally, smokers, heavy drinkers of alcohol, and patients recovering from a serious surgery or illness are also more prone to develop pneumonia.

Who should get vaccinated?

While there is no such thing as pneumonia season, it tends to be more prevalent in the winter. I follow the recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There are two types of pneumonia vaccinations, PCV13 and PPSV23. The first, PCV13 is used to protect small children, infants, adults under 65 with certain medical conditions and for any adult over the age of 65.

PPSV23, is normally given to adults over age 65 and children over age two who may be at high risk for pneumonia. This form of the vaccine is often used in adults who smoke or have a respiratory disease like asthma. Also, some are adults are eligible under the age of 65 if they use tobacco or have asthma as well. .

One shot of each type of vaccination often times protects you for life; however, some may need a booster based on changes in your medical condition. Talk to your doctor and see what is best for you.

Who should not get a pneumonia vaccine?

While you may worry about this disease, not everyone needs a pneumonia vaccine. If you are healthy and between the ages of 18 and 64, you most likely do not need it. Also, some people may be allergic to the components in the vaccine and therefore, not eligible to receive.

What are the risks of taking the pneumonia vaccine?

The pneumonia vaccine includes an extract from the actual pneumonia bacteria, but it is not strong enough to cause the illness. Some patients have experienced very mild side effects, including swelling, redness and discomfort at the vaccine site, low-grade fever, irritability, overall achiness and reduced appetite. However, these reactions are reported in less than one percent of patients who have had the injection.

As you can see from Dr. DeCaro’s answers, pneumonia is a serious condition that requires a diagnosis from a physician. If you fall within the age categories or have the conditions listed, it is important that you talk with your primary care provider (PCP) now. If you do not have a PCP, Mercy Health Physicians is proud to offer an office close to you with more than 20 locations throughout Lorain County and surrounding communities, including Dr. Decaro in our Amherst office.

To discuss your overall health and see if you need a pneumonia vaccine, please call 877.930.DOCS to schedule an appointment with Dr. DeCaro, who is accepting new patients at Mercy Health – Amherst Family Medicine, located at 101 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst.