How Often Should Seniors Get the Pneumonia Shot?

Pneumococcal disease, caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, can lead to serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Older adults, especially those aged 65 and above, are at increased risk.

Sydney Blunt

• 2 min read
How Often Should Seniors Get the Pneumonia Shot?
Photo by Pille R. Priske / Unsplash

🩺 CDC Recommendations for Seniors Aged 65 and Older

As of October 2024, the CDC provides the following guidance for adults aged 65 and older:

  • Option 1: PCV20 or PCV21 Only
    Adults who have never received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) should receive a single dose of PCV20 or PCV21. These vaccines do not require a follow-up dose of the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23).
  • Option 2: PCV15 Followed by PPSV23
    If PCV15 is administered, it should be followed by a dose of PPSV23 at least 1 year later. This combination is recommended for adults who have certain risk conditions.
  • Shared Clinical Decision-Making
    For adults who have previously received both PCV13 (but not PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21) and PPSV23 at or after age 65, there is an option to receive PCV20 or PCV21. This decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering individual health status and risk factors.

It's important to note that if PPSV23 is not available, a dose of PCV20 or PCV21 may be given instead. (CDC)

📅 Timing and Frequency

  • For Adults Who Have Never Received a PCV: A single dose of PCV20 or PCV21 is recommended.
  • For Adults Who Received PCV15: Administer a dose of PPSV23 at least 1 year later.
  • For Adults Who Received PCV13 and PPSV23: A shared clinical decision-making approach is recommended to determine the need for PCV20 or PCV21.

These guidelines aim to ensure optimal protection against pneumococcal disease while avoiding unnecessary vaccinations. (CDC)

🧠 Risk-Based Considerations

Certain health conditions may increase the risk of pneumococcal disease, including:

  • Chronic heart, lung, or liver disease
  • Diabetes
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Immunocompromising conditions (e.g., HIV, cancer treatments)

Individuals with these conditions should consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate pneumococcal vaccination schedule. (CDC)

✅ Importance of Vaccination

Pneumococcal vaccines are effective in preventing serious infections caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. Vaccination is especially crucial for older adults, as the risk of severe disease increases with age. By adhering to the CDC's vaccination recommendations, seniors can significantly reduce their risk of contracting pneumococcal disease.

🔗 Reference

For the most current and detailed information, please refer to the CDC's official page on pneumococcal vaccination for adults:

👉 CDC Pneumococcal Vaccination Recommendations for Adults