U.S. Health Officials Recommend Pneumococcal Shot for Ages 50 and Older
New Recommendation Made by Scientific Advisory Panel and Accepted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. health officials have recommended that people 50 and older get a shot against bacteria that can cause pneumonia and other dangerous illnesses. The recommendation was made by a scientific advisory panel and then accepted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This decision lowers the minimum recommended age for adults to get the shot from 65.
Why the Change in Recommendation?
The advisory committee voted 14-1 to make the change during a meeting in Atlanta. The guidance is widely heeded by doctors and prompts health insurers to pay for recommended shots. The committee noted that illness-causing infections peak at age 55 to 59 in Black Americans, a lower age than what’s seen in white people.
What is the Pneumococcal Shot?
There are more than 100 known types of pneumococci bacteria, which can cause serious infections in the lungs and other parts of the body. Each year, the U.S. sees roughly 30,000 cases of invasive pneumococcal disease, which includes blood infections, brain and spine inflammation, and other illnesses. About 30% of cases are among 50- to 64-year-olds.
What is the Recommendations for Pneumococcal Vaccine?
The CDC currently recommends shots for children younger than 5 and adults 65 or older, as long as they have never been vaccinated against pneumococcal disease. Officials also recommend the shots for children and adults at increased risk for pneumococcal disease, such as those with diabetes, chronic liver disease or a weakened immune system.
How Often is the Pneumococcal Vaccine Needed?
An adult will usually need only one pneumococcal vaccination, though some protocols advise two shots about a year apart.
Newly Approved Vaccine: Merck’s Capvaxive
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration this year approved the newest pneumococcal vaccine, Merck’s Capvaxive, which can cost around $300 a dose and protects against 21 types, including eight not included in other pneumococcal vaccines. A Merck spokesperson said it was specifically designed to help protect against the bacteria types that cause the majority of severe disease in adults aged 50 and older.
Conclusion
The new recommendation is intended to help protect older adults from pneumococcal disease. With the changing guidance, it is essential for individuals aged 50 and older to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if they need the pneumococcal shot.
FAQs
Q: What is the new recommendation for the pneumococcal vaccine?
A: The new recommendation is for people 50 and older to get a pneumococcal shot.
Q: How often is the pneumococcal vaccine needed?
A: An adult will usually need only one pneumococcal vaccination, though some protocols advise two shots about a year apart.
Q: What are the benefits of the pneumococcal vaccine?
A: The pneumococcal vaccine can help protect against serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria, such as pneumonia and meningitis.
Q: How can I get the pneumococcal vaccine?
A: Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if you need the pneumococcal vaccine and to receive it if necessary.
