Why You Should Get the Pneumonia Vaccine

Pneumonia is an infection that causes the air sacs in the lungs to become inflamed (swollen) and filled with fluid or pus. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19.  

Signs and symptoms

Pneumonia signs and symptoms can be mild or severe. Severity depends on the type of germ that caused the infection, and the patient’s age and overall health. Signs and symptoms of pneumonia include:

  • Chest pain when breathing or coughing
  • Confusion or changes in mental awareness, particularly in adults age 65 and older
  • Cough, which may produce phlegm
  • Fatigue; fever, sweating and shaking chills
  • Lower than normal body temperature, particularly in adults older than age 65 and people with weak immune system
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Shortness of breath
Why get the vaccine?

Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself against pneumonia. While the vaccine cannot prevent all cases of pneumonia, it lowers your risk of getting the infection. If you’re vaccinated and develop pneumonia, chances are you’ll have a mild case of the disease.

Who should get the vaccine?

Infants and young children, people older than 65, and those with heart disease, diabetes, emphysema, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or weakened immune systems should get the pneumonia vaccine. These groups are at highest risk of developing serious, life-threatening pneumonia.

Consult your doctor about the recommended pneumonia vaccination schedule.

Shop at Watsons for prescription medications and other essential healthcare needs. Ask our pharmacist about the pneumonia vaccine available at Watsons.

 

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354204. Accessed 01 July 2021
https://www.webmd.com/lung/pneumococcal-vaccine-schedule. Accessed 01 July 2021

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