How Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?

Pneumonia can be very serious and even life threatening. When possible, take steps to prevent the infection, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.

Vaccines

Vaccines are available to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and the flu. Vaccines can’t prevent all cases of infection. However, compared to people who don’t get vaccinated, those who do and still get pneumonia tend to have:

• Milder cases of the infection
• Pneumonia that doesn’t last as long
• Fewer serious complications

Pneumococcal Pneumonia Vaccine

A vaccine is available to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia. In most people, one shot is good for at least 5 years of protection. This vaccine is often recommended for:

• People who are 65 years or older.
• People who have chronic diseases, serious long-term health problems, or weak immune systems. Examples include people who have cancer, HIV/AIDS, or damaged or removed spleens.
• Alaska Natives and certain American Indian populations.
• Children who are 2 years or younger, and children between the ages of 2 and 5 who have a chronic disease (like cancer or HIV/AIDS) or are Alaska Natives, American Indians, or African Americans. The vaccine also is recommended for children between the ages of 2 and 5 who attend group daycare programs.

Influenza Vaccine

The vaccine that helps prevent the flu is good for 1 year. It’s usually given in October or November, before peak flu season.

Because many people get pneumonia after having the flu, this vaccine also helps prevent pneumonia.

Hib Vaccine

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a type of bacteria that can cause pneumonia and meningitis (an infection of the covering of the brain and spinal cord). The Hib vaccine is given to children to help prevent these infections.

The vaccine is recommended for all children in the United States who are younger than 5 years. It’s often given to infants starting at 2 months of age.

Other Ways To Help Prevent Pneumonia

Other steps also can help prevent pneumonia.

• Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based rubs to kill germs.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking damages your lungs’ ability to filter out and defend against germs.
• Keep your immune system strong. Get plenty of rest and physical activity and follow a healthy diet.

If you have pneumonia, limit contact with family and friends. Cover your nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, and dispose of tissues right away. These measures help keep the infection from spreading.