Pneumococcal disease or pneumonia as it is more commonly known, is caused by Streptococcus pneumonia. It is the leading cause of vaccine-preventable illness and death in the United States. Anyone can get pneumonia, but some people are at greater risk for catching it and for developing more serious infections because of it. If you are over 65, have a weakend immune system, smoke or other chronic health problems, you need to be protected from this potentially deadly disease. Pneumonia kills 1 out of every 20 people who get it and if you already have health problems your risk increases.

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria, including those most likely to cause serious disease. Ask your doctor if you should be vaccinated for pneumonia. You can also call your local or state health department or stop by Thompson Pharmacy and speak to one of pharmacists about the risks and benefits of the pneumonia and other vaccines that are now available at our vaccination clinics located at our Hollidaysburg and Juniata locations.

Below are some helpful links to answer your questions about the pneumonia vaccine and vaccine related information.