There’s been a lot of talk lately about vaccines, their safety and whether they really work. One vaccine health care providers always recommend for senior patients is the pneumococcal vaccine. It helps keep you healthy and doing what you love most.
At what age should adults get the pneumococcal vaccine?
As we age, our immune systems weaken, and it gets harder to fight off infections. That’s why many professional organizations and independent experts recommend the pneumococcal vaccine for everyone age 50 or older.
Pneumonia infections can become more serious and even life threatening as you get older. So, you want to do everything you can to protect yourself from a potentially serious infection. If you have a chronic illness such as diabetes, lung, heart or kidney disease talk to your primary care provider at your next appointment to see if the pneumococcal vaccine is right for you.
Which pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for adults 50 and older?
The two types of pneumococcal vaccines available in the U.S. are:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV15, PCV20 and PCV21)
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)
PCV20 and PCV21 are recommended for most people age 50 or older because they protect against more strains of the pneumococcal virus. But if you’ve already been vaccinated or started a two-dose series with another version, talk to your doctor to see what they recommend.
What does the pneumococcal vaccine protect you from?
The pneumococcal vaccine is very effective at preventing pneumonia, an infection in the lungs that can be life-threatening. It can also protect you from meningitis, bloodstream infections and ear infections. If you do get sick, being vaccinated helps reduce your risk of hospitalization or developing serious complications.
How often should seniors get the pneumococcal vaccine?
How often you need the pneumococcal vaccine depends on your age, underlying health conditions and which vaccines you’ve already received. But for most seniors it’s a one-time thing, or a two-dose series. If you’re over 65 years old and received the pneumonia vaccine more than 5 years ago, check with your doctor at your next visit to see if an additional dose is needed.
Is it safe? What are the side effects?
Yes, this vaccine is not only effective, but also very safe. The side effects are minimal and may include redness, swelling and soreness at the injection spot – just like any other shot. Less common side effects are fever, chills or muscle aches, though these usually fade quickly.
Is the pneumococcal vaccine covered by Medicare?
If you have medical coverage provided by the federal government (also known as Medicare Part B) or a Medicare plan from a private insurance company, both types of pneumococcal vaccines are covered. In fact, they’re covered 100% when given at least 12 months apart.
Where can I get the pneumococcal vaccine?
You can get the pneumococcal vaccine from your primary care provider or at your local pharmacy. But make sure to confirm they’re in your health plan’s network first to avoid unexpected costs.
HealthPartners members can easily search for in-network providers. If you have questions about your coverage, contact Member Services at the number on the back of your member ID card.