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Pneumonia

What is pneumococcal pneumonia?
Pneumococcal pneumonia is a serious lung infection. It is the most common kind of pneumonia identified in people of Medicare age. Symptoms include fever, aches, fatigue, chest pain, cough and confusion.

Who should get a pneumonia shot?
It is very important for people 65 years of age and older to get a pneumococcal vaccination (pneumonia shot). People with certain chronic diseases should also get the pneumococcal vaccination. If you are allergic to phenol (a preservative in the vaccine), you should not get this vaccination. If you have a fever, you should wait until you are well.

When should I get the shot?
If you are 65 years of age or older and have not had one previously, you should get a pneumonia shot now. Your doctor can advise you if you will need this vaccination more than once in your lifetime. The pneumonia shot can be given at any time.

Will the shot make me sick?
The pneumococcal vaccine cannot cause pneumonia. A few people might have minor side effects like swelling, soreness, fever or muscle pain, but these are usually mild and last a very short time.

How much will it cost? Where can I get it?
Like the flu shot, Medicare Part B covers the pneumonia shot, if your physician accepts Medicare. Call your physician’s office to find out where you can get your pneumonia shot.


What if I belong to a Managed Care Organization (MCO)?
MCO consumers receive the same mammography benefits as those with traditional Medicare coverage. Contact your MCO for additional information.

 

New Pneumococcal Brochure: "Get it and Forget It!"
The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the availability of the new pneumococcal vaccine brochure,
"Get it, and Forget it!"

The brochure is supplied in quantities of 50 per package. This brochure, along with other immunization related items, is available through the Department of Health Publication and Supply Distribution Center at (850) 414-8086. Please refer to the following when ordering: DH 150-886, 6/05, Stock Number 5730-886-0150-0.

Please share this material with all providers of adult vaccines and please post this information on your web site. For further information regarding this brochure, please contact John Keegan of the Bureau of Immunization at (850) 245-4342 or SunCom 205-4342.

Medicare Consumer Help Line:
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-634-2223)