CHICAGO — In a move aimed at reducing the burden of a potentially serious lung infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its pneumococcal vaccination guidelines to include all adults aged 50 and older, as well as younger adults with certain health conditions. The new recommendations are part of a broader effort to protect millions of Americans from pneumococcal pneumonia, the most common form of bacterial pneumonia in the United States.
The American Lung Association, in partnership with Pfizer, is launching a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the changes and encourage eligible individuals to get vaccinated. Each year, an estimated 150,000 Americans are hospitalized due to pneumococcal pneumonia, which can cause severe illness, prolonged recovery, and in some cases, death.
“Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time and may have serious consequences, especially for older adults or those with chronic health conditions,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Vaccination is one of the best ways to help protect against this disease. Even if you’ve been vaccinated before, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether additional doses are needed based on the latest guidelines.”
Under the new CDC guidance, pneumococcal vaccination is now recommended for:
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All adults 50 years of age and older.
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Adults aged 19–49 with underlying conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, or for those who smoke.
Pneumococcal pneumonia is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the lungs and can develop quickly. Symptoms may include fever, chills, chest pain, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, and a persistent cough. The risk is particularly high for adults with chronic illnesses, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease.
According to the American Lung Association, adults over 50 are 6.4 times more likely to develop pneumococcal pneumonia compared to younger adults. For those 65 and older, the risk of being hospitalized due to the infection increases more than tenfold.
The Lung Association’s public education campaign will focus on informing adults about the importance of prevention and the expanded eligibility for pneumococcal vaccination. With support from healthcare professionals and community outreach, the campaign aims to reduce hospitalizations and improve respiratory health outcomes for those most vulnerable.
“Staying up to date with pneumococcal vaccination is a vital step toward protecting your health or the health of a loved one,” Wimmer said. “We encourage everyone to learn about the new recommendations and take action to reduce their risk.”
