What Adults 50+ Need to Know About Pneumococcal Vaccines
Protect yourself against severe outcomes.
As soon as you turn 50, you can take the first step to help keep yourself protected against pneumococcal disease: getting vaccinated.
Pneumococcal disease can be severe for adults 50+.
Pneumococcal disease is caused by a bacteria and can result in many different types of infections, including pneumonia and bloodstream infections.
Even short bouts of pneumococcal disease can trigger pneumonia and lasting impacts on mobility, strength, and cognitive function. In fact, pneumococcal pneumonia leads to over 150,000 hospital stays annually, and about one in 20 who develop the disease do not survive.
As you age, your immune system naturally weakens, putting older adults at a significantly higher risk of a hospital stay and death from respiratory diseases. That means adults ages 50 and older are at higher risk — but vaccination can help prevent serious illness and keep you healthy.
Taking proactive steps to protect your health is one of the best ways to stay strong, independent, and able to enjoy the activities you love.
50 or older? Time to get vaccinated.
If you’re over 50, it’s recommended that you get vaccinated against pneumococcal disease. You can receive a pneumococcal vaccine at any time of year, and at the same time as other vaccines.
The right pneumococcal vaccine for you depends on your age, health condition, and vaccination history, so talk with your healthcare provider about which type of vaccine is best for you.
Pneumococcal vaccines, alongside regular screenings and routine care, help safeguard your well-being so you can stay active, healthy, and engaged in the things that matter most.
Find a vaccination location near you.
Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist and check out our Vaccine Locator to help find a vaccination location near you.
