Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine
The Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine is recommended for anyone 65 years of age and older, children under 2 years old, smokers 19-64 years, and people with certain medical conditions. The cost of most vaccinations are covered by most insurance companies, Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare.
Three Ways to Protect Yourself From Pneumonia
- Get Vaccinated. The most important way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated. Ask your doctor today how you can get the pneumococcal vaccine.
- Wash Your Hands. Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Stay Home When Sick. Seek care if you are feeling unwell and stay home when sick.
Fight Pneumonia: Get the Pneumococcal Vaccine Today!
Pneumonia is caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi. Bacterial pneumococcal disease from infection by Streptococcus pneumoniae may occur in:
- Lung infection (“pneumonia”)
- Sinus and ear infections
- Infection in the tissue around the brain and spinal cord (“pneumococcal meningitis”)
- Infection in the blood stream (“Bacteremia”)
There are 2 types of pneumococcal vaccines:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13): recommended for all children under 2 years of age, people 2 years or older with certain medical conditions, and some adults 65+ years of age (ask your doctor)
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23): recommended for all adults 65+ years of age, people 2-64 years with certain medical conditions, and adults 19-64 years who smoke cigarettes.
- It is important to discuss with your doctor about when you should receive this vaccine.
You may be eligible to get the pneumonia vaccine for FREE:
- Check your eligibility for Merck’s Patient Assistance Program
- Download the Merck Patient Assistance application
- Take the application to your doctor’s office or local clinic that administers vaccines to be submitted by fax.
If you are eligible, the cost of your Pneumovax23 vaccine, may be covered in full or in part by the manufacturer.