Pneumococcal (pneumonia)

The official name for this vaccine is Pneumococcal Polysaccharide (PPV). This bacterium, known as Streptococcus Pneumoniae, can cause infections of the lungs (pneumonia), the bloodstream (bacteremia), and the covering of the brain (meningitis). Anyone can get Pneumococcal disease; however, persons over 65 years of age, infants, and persons who have special health problems are at a higher risk.

The Pneumococcal Polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) contains material from the 23 types of Pneumococcal bacteria that are responsible for nearly 90% of all Pneumococcal bacteremias.

A study was released in April 2003 determined that the Pneumococcal vaccine (PPV) was proving beneficial in reducing the incidence of stroke.

The Pneumococcal vaccine offers adequate protection for up to 10 years. It is recommended that those over the age of 65 should receive a booster every 6 years.