Actor Portrayal50 or older?Your risk of pneumococcal pneumonia is real What is pneumococcal pneumonia? Pneumococcal pneumonia, the most common form of pneumococcal disease in adults, is a lung infection caused by bacteria called pneumococcus. Pneumococcal pneumonia can be serious and should not be ignored. The same bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia can also invade other parts of the body that are normally free of bacteria, such as the bloodstream and the lining of the brain and spinal cord. These types of infections are called IPD, which is short for invasive pneumococcal disease. IPD can be more severe than pneumococcal pneumonia. Even healthy adults 50 or older are at greater risk of pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD* Your risk increases with age Your immune system weakens as you age, making you more vulnerable to infections. The overall risk of pneumococcal pneumonia is about 3x higher for all adults 50-64* 8x higher for all adults 65 or older* The overall risk of invasive pneumococcal disease is about 5x higher for all adults 50-64* 12x higher for all adults 65 or older* *compared to adults under 50 Actor PortrayalWhat to look for Pneumococcal pneumonia might be more serious than you think. It can cause: Chest pain Fever and chills Fatigue Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing Confusion or low alertness in older adults Complications from either pneumococcal pneumonia or IPD can lead to long-term health problems, hospitalization, organ damage, and even death. Actor PortrayalWhy vaccinate? The CDC guidelines have changed—adults 50 or older are recommended to get a pneumococcal vaccine. As you get older, it’s important to do what you can to help protect yourself from pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD. Stay current with your recommended vaccinations by getting a pneumococcal vaccine. IF YOU’RE 50 OR OLDER, ASK YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST ABOUT GETTING VACCINATED AGAINST PNEUMOCOCCAL PNEUMONIA TODAY Learn about one of your options >> Share this website with someone you care aboutPreview full linkCopy link
