Taken together, pneumonia and influenza are the fifth leading cause of death among older Americans. Approximately 90% of the deaths caused by these illnesses were among the over-65 population. Pneumonia can be cause by bacterial, viral or mycoplasma infections. Pneumonia is caused by an infection or inflammation of the alveoli, the smallest air passages in the lungs. These alveoli fill up with pus or mucus which prevents oxygen from reaching the blood. Pneumonia often follows a cold, flu, or bronchitis.

Symptoms

Pneumonia is characterized by a fever and productive cough with greenish-yellow or reddish-brown sputum. Taking a deep breath or coughing may be painful. Often the signs and symptoms of pneumonia are atypical in older adults which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Almost all bacterial pneumonias in older adults are caused by pneumococci.

Prevention

A one time immunization can protect you against pneumococcal pneumonia. Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, pneumococcal infections continue to be the leading cause of pneumonia with only 36% report having even received the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 80% of the deaths occurring from these infections each year are among people over age 65.

Who should be vaccinated?

• Anyone over age 65
• Anyone with a chronic illness (e.g., heart or lung disease, or diabetes)
• Anyone with a weak immune system (e.g., HIV positive, kidney diseases, cancer)