It is that time of year again when every germ available is going around. We need to do all we can to keep ourselves healthy. A healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep are the key steps to a healthy immune system. Despite doing all we can, there are still bacteria out there that can be deadly if we catch them. One of the major concerns is pneumonia.
We do have vaccines that can help to protect us. New guidance from the CDC recommends adults older than 50 (this is a change from the previous recommended age of 65) and children younger than 2 be vaccinated. It is recommended for all ages with certain risk factors, including chronic diseases like diabetes and COPD. People who smoke or vape or have asthma can be at an increased risk and getting vaccinated can protect you against getting severely ill. Other risk factors include chronic renal failure, asplenia (lack of a spleen-whether at birth or having it removed), any malignancy or cancer, HIV, Hodgkin, leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, sickle cell disease or other blood abnormalities and solid organ transplantation.
Pneumonia is what we are trying to prevent. However, did you know that the same bacteria that causes pneumonia can also cause ear infections, sinusitis, meningitis and, or bacteria in the blood? Pneumococcal infections can be mild to life threatening.
The Pneumococcal vaccine is made like previous vaccines, where a portion of the bacteria is taken and put in the vaccine to trigger the person’s immune system to recognize and attack. So when we do get exposed again our body can fight it off. This is the same process that has been used for years to make vaccines. While no vaccine is 100% effective, they are very beneficial to lessen the severity and potentially prevent disease.
Currently we have four different vaccines available: PCV15, PCV 20, PCV 21 or PPSV 23. The number with each vaccine identifies how many strains you are protected against. You should discuss which vaccine is right for you with your healthcare provider. Factors such as age, health conditions and previous vaccines will determine what the right choice is for you. Vaccines are available at your local health department or your nearest pharmacy.
Common reactions to vaccines include redness or pain at the site of injection, feeling tired, fever and or muscle aches. These reactions can last two days but remember not everyone has reactions to vaccines. Anything more severe should be reported to your healthcare provider. And remember, you can’t get the disease through the vaccine.
Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!
– Laurie Nate FNP-C is a Nurse Practitioner at Health West Preston. She earned her nursing degree at Idaho State University and her family nurse practitioner license at Graceland University. She has more than 25 years of nursing experience and enjoys living and working in rural areas.
