Pneumonia, a serious lung infection, can range from mild to life-threatening. Streptococcus pneumoniae, or pneumococcus, is a common bacterial cause. Fortunately, vaccines are available to help prevent pneumococcal disease. Unlike the annual influenza shot, pneumonia vaccines are generally not administered every year for most individuals, with specific recommendations guiding their use.
Types of Pneumonia Vaccines
There is not a single “pneumonia shot”; instead, several types of vaccines protect against pneumococcal disease. These vaccines primarily fall into two categories: pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccines (PPSVs). The main difference between them lies in how they stimulate the immune system and the number of bacterial strains they target.
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) include PCV15 (Vaxneuvance), PCV20 (Prevnar 20), and PCV21 (Capvaxive). These protect against 15, 20, and 21 types of pneumococcal bacteria by linking a bacterial component to a protein to enhance the immune response. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, PPSV23 (Pneumovax 23), protects against 23 types of bacteria and uses purified sugar capsules from the bacteria.
Who Needs Pneumonia Vaccination and When
Pneumococcal vaccination recommendations are based on age, health conditions, and prior vaccination history. Recent updates to the 2025 immunization schedule by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lowered the age-based recommendation from 65 to 50 years old. Adults aged 50 years and older are now generally recommended to receive a pneumococcal vaccine.
For adults 50 years and older who have not previously received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, a single dose of PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21 is recommended. If PCV15 is administered, it should be followed by a dose of PPSV23 at least one year later to provide comprehensive protection. For individuals with weakened immune systems, this interval can be shortened to a minimum of eight weeks.
Adults aged 19 through 49 years with certain underlying medical conditions or risk factors are also advised to receive pneumococcal vaccination. These conditions include chronic heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease, diabetes, or conditions that weaken the immune system. For these individuals, a single dose of PCV20 or PCV21 is recommended, or a dose of PCV15 followed by PPSV23. The exact vaccine type and schedule depend on their specific health status and prior vaccination history.
Individuals who have received older pneumococcal vaccines, such as PCV13 or PPSV23, should consult their healthcare provider about additional doses. The pneumococcal vaccination series is a one-time event or involves a limited number of doses over their lifetime, rather than an annual shot.
Importance of Pneumonia Vaccination
Vaccination against pneumococcal disease protects public health. Pneumococcal bacteria can cause severe infections, including pneumonia, which affects the lungs, and more invasive forms such as meningitis (an infection of the brain and spinal cord lining) and bacteremia (a bloodstream infection). These conditions can lead to serious health complications, hospitalization, and even death, especially in vulnerable populations.
Receiving the pneumococcal vaccine reduces the risk of developing these severe illnesses. Vaccination helps the body build immunity to fight off infections caused by the specific strains covered by the vaccine. This preventative measure protects the vaccinated individual and contributes to broader community protection by reducing the spread of the bacteria. Widespread vaccine use has led to a decrease in the overall incidence of pneumococcal disease.
Pneumonia Vaccines Versus Flu Shots
A common point of confusion exists between pneumonia vaccines and annual influenza (flu) shots. They serve different purposes and follow distinct schedules. Influenza viruses constantly evolve, requiring a new flu vaccine each year to protect against circulating strains. This yearly vaccination helps reduce the risk of seasonal influenza.
Pneumonia vaccines protect against bacteria that do not change as rapidly as influenza viruses. Therefore, for most individuals, a pneumonia vaccine is not required annually. Both vaccinations are important for respiratory health, targeting different pathogens with different administration frequencies.