Pneumonia Shot

The pneumonia shot is recommended for all adults older than age 65. More than ninety different types of pneumococcus bacteria have been identified and it is impossible to immunize against all of them. Vaccines have been developed against the most common types.

The traditional pneumonia shot given to older adults protects against the twenty-three strains that cause 80-90% of disease. This is the vaccine that has been used for decades. Recently, guidelines recommend adding a second shot that protects against thirteen additional strains. This second shot had previously been given to children and adults who had underlying medical conditions that reduced their immunity.

The latest recommendation from United States Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is that at age 65 every adult have the PCV 13 shot followed by the PCV 23 six to twelve months later. Adults older than 65 who already had the PCV 23 should have the PCV 13 one or more years later. 

Either form of the pneumonia shot can be given at the same time as another vaccine. It takes the body about two weeks to start producing antibodies (which is how the vaccine works). The most common side-effects are pain, swelling and redness at the injection site – these typically last fewer than 48 hours.

More information about PCV 23 and PCV 13.

Medicare and many insurance companies will pay for these shots - but be sure to check with your carrier.