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Will the pneumonia vaccine help?

I noticed that many in the community suffer from pneumonia. Have you had the pneumonia vaccination? Does the vaccination not have any affects on getting pneumonia? Basically I'm asking if the vaccination I got will help prevent my getting pneumonia.

  1. Hi WandaT - That's a great question! The CDC recommends that all children under 2 and adults 65 and older get the vaccine. There are other situations when it's recommended that people outside those age groups receive it as well. For instance, people that have immune problems and those that have lung conditions (such as COPD or asthma), since both are at a greater risk of contracting pneumonia.

    Getting the vaccine doesn't guarantee that you won't get pneumonia, but it does greatly reduce the risk. Additionally, if you do receive the vaccine and later get pneumonia, it's likely to be a mild case.

    Sadly, not all doctors or healthcare providers encourage their patients to get vaccinated. That may contribute to the people you know in your community that have gotten pneumonia. And of course, there are always those that just don't follow the advice of their doctor.

    I'm glad to hear you got the vaccination!

    Lyn (moderator)

    1. Hi Wanda T and thanks for submitting your excellent question. I see that Lyn has provided you with a very comprehensive answer which should provide you with some additional insight for your concern.
      In addition, I thought you might find it helpful to look over this article on COPD and vaccinations: https://copd.net/living-with-copd/pulmonary-rehab/lifestyle/vaccinations/.
      It's good to hear that you did get the vaccine for yourself. Keep up the good work!
      All the best,
      Leon (site moderator)

  2. Hi Wanda, thank you for your question! Pneumonia is certainly a concern for those with COPD and vaccinating yourself is one of the best ways to help prevent contracting the illness. You might be interested in looking at these two articles about COPD and pneumonia: https://copd.net/living/pneumonia-need-to-know/ and https://copd.net/living-with-copd/pulmonary-rehab/lifestyle/vaccinations/ Hopefully some other members with COPD who have experience with pneumonia - either with or without the vaccine will chime in on the conversation, but in the meantime, this might get you started! Though do remember that all people are different and will respond uniquely to COPD and conditions, like pneumonia, that affect it. Thank you for reaching out! I'm glad you are part of the community! Best, Allyson (site moderator)

    1. Thank you Allyson, Lyn, & Leon for your answers and suggested reading. You have been very helpful and the articles you recommended explained a lot, especially the early warning signs to watch out for. I am so very glad I found this site.

      1. We're glad to have you as part of our online community, Wanda T. You are always welcome here.
        Warm regards,
        Leon (site moderator)

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