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Pneumonia is an illness that may look like a cold or the flu, but is much more serious. Viruses cause the flu and colds, but pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that may be caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses or other organisms.
Even if you are young and healthy, there may be a chance of developing pneumonia. The chance of getting pneumonia is a special concern for older adults, individuals who are living with chronic health conditions, like diabetes or asthma, or individuals with weakened immune systems. Getting a pneumonia shot is the best way to help you stay healthy. Pneumonia shots are FREE to CareOregon members.
Should I get a pneumonia shot?
Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to see if you should get a pneumonia shot. You may have a greater need for a shot if you are member of any of the groups listed below:
- All adults 65 years of age or older
- Anyone over the age of 2 years who has a long-term health condition like:
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Sickle cell disease
- Diabetes
- Alcoholism
- Cirrhosis
- Leaks of cerebrospinal fluid
- Anyone over the age of 2 years who has a disease or condition that has weakened their body’s ability to help it fight off an infection:
- Lymphoma, leukemia
- Hodgkin’s disease
- Kidney failure
- Nephritic syndrome
- Damaged spleen
- Organ transplant
- Multiple myeloma
- HIV infection or AIDS
- Anyone over the age of 2 years who is taking any drug or receiving treatment that may weaken their body’s ability to help it fight off an infection:
- Long-term steroids
- Radiation therapy
- Certain cancer drugs
- Alaskan Natives and certain Native American Tribes
Where can I get a pneumonia shot?
Your PCP can give you a pneumonia shot. Usually only one dose of the vaccine is necessary for adults. Some individuals may need a second dose, which follows 5 years after the first dose. Be sure to talk to your PCP about the best time for you or your family member to get a pneumonia shot. The shot is FREE.
What can I do to avoid getting pneumonia?
Here are some tips to help you and your family stay healthy:
- Get your health shots
- A yearly flu shot can help prevent viral influenza and bacterial pneumonia
- Get a pneumococcal pneumonia shot at least once after age 55
- Protect young children under the age of 2 with a pneumococcal conjugate shot
- Wash your hands
- Your hands are in contact with germs that may cause pneumonia. You may reduce your chance of getting pneumonia by washing your hands with soap and warm water. Use an alcohol-base hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Don’t smoke
- Smoking damages your lungs’ natural defenses against respiratory infections
- Take care of yourself
- Help your immune system stay strong by:
- Getting enough rest
- Including fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your daily meals
- Being physically active very day
What are the signs or symptoms of pneumonia?
Pneumonia may be difficult to spot because it may look like a cold or the flu. Do not delay calling your PCP if you think you may have pneumonia, especially if you are an older adult or have other serious health conditions. Some of the signs that may start suddenly include:
- Shaking chills, a high fever, sweating
- Shortness of breath, chest pain
- A cough that produces thick, greenish or yellow phlegm
What should I do if I get pneumonia?
The following tips will help you reduce the chance of developing more serious health problems:
- Follow your PCP’s instructions for taking any prescribed medications. Ask your Pharmacist or PCP any questions you might have about the medication. If you stop taking the medication, the pneumonia infection may come back.
- Keep all of your follow-up appointments. You may feel better, but it is still important for your PCP to continue to check your lungs for infection.
- Get plenty of rest. Be sure not to over do it, even when you start to feel better.
- Drinks lots of water and other fluids. Fluids will help you avoid dehydration.
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