Get Your Allergies Under Control with Allergy Testing
Is your nose always running? Do you have itchy, watery eyes? You might have allergies. The only way to know for sure and relieve your symptoms is to get allergy testing. Click here to learn more.
Who Needs a Pneumonia Vaccine and How Often?
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can range from mild to life-threatening. While it affects people of all ages, the risk is higher for young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions. The good news is that immunizations are one of the most powerful tools to prevent pneumococcal disease and its complications.
At Health Solutions, our experienced team offers pneumonia vaccination as part of preventive care at our clinics in Tinley Park, Rockford, Olympia Fields (IL), and Munster (IN). Below, we explain who should receive the vaccine, how often, and why it matters.
Who should get a pneumonia vaccine?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for:
Children:
- All children younger than 5 years should receive a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV).
- Children ages 5–18 who have medical conditions (like chronic lung disease, immune system suppression, or other risk factors) should also be vaccinated.
Adults:
- All adults 50 years and older are recommended to receive a pneumococcal vaccine.
- Adults ages 19–64 with certain chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, lung disease, heart disease), those who smoke cigarettes, or those with weakened immunity may also need the vaccine.
If you’re unsure whether you or your child qualifies, our care team can help you determine the right course based on your medical history and risk profile.
How often is the pneumonia vaccine needed?
The dosing schedule depends on age, prior vaccination, and individual health conditions.
For children:
The CDC recommends a four-dose series of PCV (such as PCV15 or PCV20) given at 2, 4, 6, and 12–15 months of age. If any doses are missed, catch-up schedules may apply.
For adults 50 and older:
- If you have never received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, the CDC recommends one dose of PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21.
- If you receive PCV15, many people will also receive a dose of PPSV23 one year later as additional protection.
- If PCV20 or PCV21 is used, a follow-on PPSV23 dose is not required under typical guidelines.
Adults under 50 with certain risk factors may also be recommended to receive pneumococcal vaccination earlier. Our team will tailor vaccine timing to your needs.
Who is at higher risk for pneumococcal disease?
The following factors increase your risk and strengthen the case for vaccination:
- Chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes, kidney, or liver disease
- A compromised immune system (e.g., from HIV, cancer treatment, or organ transplant)
Cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks - Living in long-term care or nursing facilities
- Smoking cigarettes
If any of these apply to you, vaccination is especially important.
Protect yourself and your loved ones
Pneumococcal disease can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, or bloodstream infections — conditions that carry serious risks. The vaccines offered today are safe, effective, and a key part of preventive adult and pediatric care.
At Health Solutions, we believe in partnering with you to manage your health proactively. Whether for your child, yourself, or a loved one, we can help you navigate vaccine options and schedules.
To learn more or find out whether the pneumonia vaccine is right for you, call the clinic nearest you or request an appointment online with Health Solutions today.
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