The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has Made a Major Change on Age Recommendations for a Common Vaccine.

For the very first time – the CDC has said adults as young as 50 should get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia, which is a very significant reduction from the previous recommendation that people get the shot at age 65.

The pneumococcal vaccine helps to protect against serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis – along with other illnesses – such as sinusitis and ear infections.  It’s recommended for children younger than five, and older people, and all of those who’re at higher risk of getting seriously ill from pneumococcal infections.  The vaccine change is an effort to reduce the number of people who become ill – some that have to be hospitalized – due to pneumonia.  People spread the bacteria to others through direct contact with respiratory secretions, like saliva or mucus.

Symptoms typically appear up to three days after the bacteria enters the body with patients reporting: chest pain, cough, fever and chills, and also rapid or difficulty breathing.   Older adults may also experience confusion or low alertness.  Serious infections can result in sepsis, long-term breathing problems, OR even DEATH. 

Vaccination is considered the best way to prevent the infection.

(www.AL.COM)