Immunizations - Viral Influenza

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Click the icon to see an image of pneumococcal pneumonia.

The 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine or PPSV is recommended for the following older children or adults:

Anyone older than two years of age with heart disease, lung disease (including asthma), kidney disease or on dialysis; alcoholics, people with diabetes, cirrhosis, or those with cochlear implants or leaks of cerebrospinal fluid.
All people over 65 years old; some experts believe that all adults aged 50 - 64 should also be vaccinated. Adults over 65 who received a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine before they were 65 should receive a second dose after they turn 65.
Adults aged 19 - 64 who have asthma or smoke should receive a single dose of PPV.
Those with sickle cell disease
Those with a nonworking spleen and those who have had their spleen removed (should receive a second vaccine five years or more after the first dose)
Persons with conditions that weaken the immune system, such as cancer, HIV infection, or organ transplantation
Persons who receive chronic (long-term) immunosuppressive medications, including steroids
Individuals with immune deficiencies or those undergoing treatments that suppress the immune system (should receive a second vaccine 5 years or more after the first dose)
Patients with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, although protection may not be as strong for these patients.
Older people who have had transplant operations or those with kidney disease may require a revaccination after 6 years.
People living in long-term care facilities.
Alaska Natives or Native Americans over age 65 who live in areas with high rates of invasive pneumococcal disease. In certain communities, public health authorities may recommend vaccination for those 50 - 65 years of age, or younger.

The safety of the pneumococcal vaccine hasn't been proven during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, there have been no adverse effects reported. When the vaccine is administered to pregnant women, it may actually protect their infants against certain respiratory infections.