Pneumococcal disease refers to any illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria. These bacteria can cause many types of illnesses, including pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs. Pneumococcal bacteria are one of the most common causes of pneumonia.
Most pneumococcal infections are mild. However, some can result in long-term problems, such as brain damage or hearing loss. Meningitis, bacteremia, and pneumonia caused by the pneumococcal disease can be fatal.
Besides pneumonia, pneumococcal bacteria can also cause ear infections, sinus infections, meningitis, bacteremia, and sepsis.
Although anyone can get Pneumococcal disease, certain groups of people are at a higher risk. These groups include children under 2 years of age, people with certain medical conditions, adults 65 and older, and cigarette smokers.
The CDC recommends people who fall into these categories should get the Pneumococcal vaccine. They recommend all children younger than 2 get a Pneumococcal vaccine. They also recommend a Pneumococcal vaccine for all adults over the age of 65, individuals between the ages of 2 and 65 with certain medical conditions, and adults ages 19 through 64 who smoke cigarettes.
The current Pneumococcal vaccines are highly effective in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease (Invasive disease is usually very serious and can sometimes result in death). Studies show that getting one shot of the Pneumococcal vaccine protects at least 8 in 10 babies from serious infections called invasive pneumococcal disease, and 3 in 4 adults 65 years or older against invasive pneumococcal disease.
Rochester Clinical Research is now beginning enrollment for a Moderna COVID booster plus Pneumococcal Vaccine Study. Volunteers in this study will receive both the Moderna booster and an approved Pneumococcal Vaccine. Click here to learn more!
