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Get a Pneumonia Shot

Photo of needle and syringe

The Basics

If you are age 65 or older, ask your doctor for a pneumonia shot. This shot is sometimes called PPV.

Who Needs to Get a Pneumonia Shot?
Doctors recommend that people age 65 and older get the pneumonia shot. You may also need a pneumonia shot if you are younger than 65 and have:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart failure
  • Breathing condition like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

Talk to your doctor about whether it’s time to get the pneumonia shot.

What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia (nu-MO-ne-ah) is an infection of the lungs. It can be spread from person to person.

Pneumonia is a serious illness that can lead to infections of the blood or the brain.

Visit these websites to learn more about pneumonia:

The Benefits

Pneumonia is a serious illness that can sometimes lead to death, especially in older adults.

The good news is that some types of pneumonia can be prevented. If you get the pneumonia shot at age 65, you should be protected from the most common type of bacterial pneumonia for the rest of your life.

Are There any Side Effects?
The pneumonia shot is very safe. Some people may have redness or pain where the shot is given.

Take Action!

Pneumonia is a serious illness. Don’t wait – talk to your doctor about the pneumonia shot.

Call Your Doctor or Health Clinic Today
If you are age 65 or older, ask your doctor about the pneumonia shot. Remember, you only need one shot to protect you for the rest of your life.

What about cost?
If you are age 65 or older, Medicare will pay for your pneumonia shot. You can still get a pneumonia shot even if you don't have insurance. Find a health center near you to learn more.

Take Steps to Stay Healthy
Pneumonia is an infection that can be spread from person to person. You can take these steps to stay healthy and help fight off pneumonia:


Learn how a flu shot can also prevent pneumonia.

What do you want to do today?

  • Wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Send an e-card to encourage a friend or family member to stay healthy.
  • Call your doctor to schedule an appointment for a pneumonia shot.
  • Tell a friend or family member about the pneumonia shot.
  • National Health Information Center

    P.O. Box 1133, Washington, DC 20013-1133
    healthfinder@nhic.org