How to Protect Yourself from Pneumonia: Vaccinations for Adults Over 65

As we age, our bodies naturally become more vulnerable to infections and diseases. Pneumonia is one such infection that can severely impact the health of older adults, particularly those over the age of 65. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can cause symptoms like cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. While it can affect people of all ages, older adults are more likely to suffer from severe complications, which is why getting vaccinated is so important.

In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults over the age of 65 receive two specific vaccines to protect against pneumonia: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13 or PCV15) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). This dual vaccination strategy is critical in providing comprehensive protection from the various strains of the bacteria that cause pneumonia.

In this article, we'll explore why pneumonia poses a greater risk to older adults, what these two vaccines do, the importance of vaccination, and why you might need both vaccines. By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of how these vaccines work together to keep you healthy as you age.

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs, causing the air sacs (alveoli) to fill with fluid or pus. This can make it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream, leading to serious respiratory issues. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, but one of the most common causes in older adults is Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), a type of bacteria.

There are several types of pneumonia, including:

• Bacterial pneumonia: Most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, but also by other bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae or Staphylococcus aureus.
• Viral pneumonia: Can be caused by influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or coronaviruses (such as COVID-19).
• Aspiration pneumonia: Occurs when food, drink, or vomit is inhaled into the lungs.
• Fungal pneumonia: A rare type caused by fungi, usually seen in people with weakened immune systems.

For older adults, bacterial pneumonia is a particularly dangerous threat due to the weakening of the immune system that comes with age. Pneumonia can lead to severe complications, such as sepsis, respiratory failure, or even death.

Why is Pneumonia More Dangerous for Adults 65 and Older?

As we age, our immune systems become less efficient at fighting off infections. This decline in immune function, known as immunosenescence, is one of the main reasons that older adults are more vulnerable to pneumonia. Additionally, many older adults have chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which further increase the risk of pneumonia.

Other risk factors for pneumonia in older adults include:

• Weakened immune systems: Certain conditions, like cancer or HIV, can weaken the immune system.
• Hospitalization: Being in the hospital for an extended period increases the risk of contracting pneumonia, particularly if you're on a ventilator.
• Smoking history: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of respiratory infections.
• Malnutrition: Poor nutrition weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.

In older adults, pneumonia can quickly become life-threatening if not treated promptly. The lungs may not be able to deliver enough oxygen to the bloodstream, which can lead to respiratory failure or septic shock. Additionally, older adults are more likely to be hospitalized for pneumonia, and recovery can take longer, often with lasting effects on lung function.

The Importance of Pneumococcal Vaccination for Adults 65 and Older

Given the heightened risk of pneumonia in older adults, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent this potentially deadly disease. There are two main vaccines that protect against pneumococcal pneumonia: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV). These vaccines protect against Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common bacterial cause of pneumonia in adults.

PCV13 and PCV15: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV13 and PCV15) protect against 13 and 15 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, respectively. These vaccines work by introducing harmless parts of the bacteria into your body, allowing your immune system to build a defense against these specific strains.

• PCV13 (Prevnar 13) was the first conjugate vaccine developed to protect against 13 strains of pneumococcal bacteria. It has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), including pneumonia and meningitis.
• PCV15 (Vaxneuvance) is a newer vaccine approved by the FDA in 2021. It provides protection against 15 strains of pneumococcal bacteria, including the same 13 strains as PCV13 plus two additional ones.

Both PCV13 and PCV15 are administered as a single dose, and they are typically given to older adults who have never received the PCV vaccine before. Studies have shown that these vaccines can reduce the risk of pneumonia in older adults by up to 75%, making them a crucial tool in preventing this life-threatening infection.

PPSV23: Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine

The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) is another important vaccine for preventing pneumonia in older adults. PPSV23 (Pneumovax 23) protects against 23 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, including those that are not covered by PCV13 or PCV15. Unlike the conjugate vaccines, PPSV23 does not produce a long-lasting immune response, but it offers broader coverage against pneumococcal bacteria.

PPSV23 is generally recommended for adults over the age of 65, especially those who have already received the PCV vaccine. It's typically given as a single dose, although some individuals may require a booster dose after five years if they are at high risk for pneumococcal disease.

Why Do You Need Both Vaccines?

You might be wondering why both vaccines are necessary if they protect against different strains of pneumococcal bacteria. The answer lies in their complementary protection. While PCV13/PCV15 and PPSV23 overlap in the strains they cover, each vaccine also provides unique protection against additional strains.

By receiving both the PCV and PPSV vaccines, older adults can achieve broader and more comprehensive protection against pneumonia. The CDC recommends that adults aged 65 and older receive both vaccines, starting with either the PCV13 or PCV15, followed by the PPSV23 one year later. This combination has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease.

Are There Any Side Effects?

As with any vaccine, there is a potential for side effects after receiving the pneumococcal vaccines. The most common side effects are mild and include:

• Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches

These side effects are generally short-lived and resolve on their own within a few days. Serious side effects, such as severe allergic reactions, are rare but can occur. If you experience difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face or throat after receiving the vaccine, seek medical attention immediately.

Who Should Not Get the Pneumococcal Vaccines?

While the pneumococcal vaccines are safe for most adults, there are a few situations in which they may not be appropriate. You should talk to your doctor before receiving the vaccines if:

• You have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the pneumococcal vaccine or any of its components.
• You are currently ill with a moderate or severe illness (you should wait until you recover before getting vaccinated).

In some cases, your doctor may recommend delaying vaccination if you have a weakened immune system due to certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy.

The Importance of Vaccination During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of protecting our lungs and respiratory health, particularly for older adults. Pneumonia is a known complication of COVID-19, and individuals who contract both COVID-19 and pneumococcal pneumonia at the same time may experience more severe illness.

Vaccination against pneumococcal pneumonia is especially important during the COVID-19 era. While the pneumococcal vaccines do not protect against COVID-19, they can help prevent secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumococcal pneumonia, which can occur after a viral respiratory infection like COVID-19. In fact, the CDC recommends that older adults stay up to date on all recommended vaccines, including the pneumococcal and influenza vaccines, to reduce the risk of severe respiratory illness.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Health as You Age

Pneumonia poses a serious threat to adults aged 65 and older, but vaccination can significantly reduce your risk of developing this potentially deadly infection. By receiving both the PCV and PPSV vaccines, you can achieve broader protection against pneumococcal pneumonia and other invasive pneumococcal diseases. The benefits of these vaccines far outweigh the risks, and they are a key part of staying healthy as you age.

If you're 65 or older and haven't been vaccinated against pneumonia, talk to your healthcare provider about getting both the PCV13 or PCV15 and PPSV23 vaccines. Protect your lungs, safeguard your health, and reduce your risk of hospitalization and severe illness from pneumonia.