Immunizations - Pneumococcal Pneumonia

The pneumococcal vaccine is now recommended by many experts for the following groups:

All children up to age two. Prevnarhas now been added to the Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule. The vaccineis very effective in children. Studies are suggesting that it prevents common ear infections as well as serious infections, such as pneumonia. In one study, a similar vaccine under investigation protected not only children in day care from serious respiratory infections, but their younger unvaccinated siblings had fewer infections as well.
Children up to age five who are at risk for pneumonia or complications of influenza, such as children with sickle disease, those with immune deficiencies, or children with chronic medical conditions.
Other children ages two to five who are higher risk for serious pneumococcal infections should be considered for vaccinations. They include African or Native Americans, children in group child care, socially or economically disadvantaged children, or those who have had frequent or complicated acute middle ear infections within the past year. (In one study, the vaccine reduced the number of ear infections episodes by 6%.)

Pneumococcal Vaccine in Older Children and Adults. The vaccine is proving to be effective in reducing the rate of pneumonia in young adults, although not to the degree that it protects young children. Its benefits for the elderly--other than protection against bloodstream infection--is unclear. Still, pneumonia is declining among adults, which may be due to fewer infections being transmitted from vaccinated young children. Many experts now recommend the vaccine for the following older children or adults:

All people over 65 years old. Some experts believe that all adults between 50 and 64 should also be vaccinated. Unfortunately, although the vaccination is protective against pneumococcal bacteremia (invasive infection) in people over 65, evidence suggests that it does not appear to protect against community-acquired pneumoniae.
Adults with any chronic condition that increases the risk for pneumonia. This includes patients with heart disease (such as congestive heart failure), chronic lung disease (COPD or emphysema, but not asthma), or diabetes.
Individuals with immune deficiencies (such as HIV) or those undergoing treatments that suppress the immune system.
Patients with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Unfortunately, studies show the vaccine may not be as effective in these patients as those with healthy immune systems. Nevertheless they are at high risk for serious respiratory infections and should be vaccinated.
Patients with kidney disease or kidney transplants. Older people who have had transplant operations or those with kidney disease may require a revaccination after six years.
Patients with problems in the spleen.
Alcoholics, especially those with cirrhosis.
People living in long-term care facilities.
Alaska Natives or American Indians, who may be at increased risk for pneumonia.