Family Health

Pneumonia (pneumococcal disease) is caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. These bacteria can infect different parts of the body, including the lungs, ears, sinuses, bloodstream and brain.

Why is vaccination important?

Some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this disease. Complications can include:

• Hearing loss.
• Brain damage.
• Death.

Who should get vaccinated?

• Adults 50 and older.
• People who smoke or have asthma.
• Anyone 2 years or older with a long-term health condition, such as:
  
  • Heart disease.
  • Diabetes.
  • Chronic lung disease.
  • Liver disease.
  • Sickle cell disease.
• Anyone with a weakened immune system, including those with:
  
  • HIV.
  • Leukemia or lymphoma.
  • Insuficiencia renal.
  • A damaged or missing spleen.
  • Organ transplants.
• People taking medications that weaken the immune system, such as:
  
  • Long-term steroids.
  • Radiation therapy.

Talk to a doctor to see if you need a pneumococcal vaccine.

Geovany Lizarraga, MPH, CHES, Bilingual Health Education Specialist

Categories: Health Education Corner