pneumovax (pneumococcal vaccine) is often referred to as the "pneumonia shot". it helps protect against the most common bacterial cause of pneumonia streptococcus pneumoniae often referred to as pneumococcus but does not protect against other types of pneumonia. this vaccine is indicated for healthy adults age 50 and older with properly functioning immune systems. the pneumovax 23 vaccine covers twenty three different variants of the pneumococcal bacteria. in healthy adults revaccination is not necessary. patients with underlying chronic disease should probably be revaccinated every 5 years. an annual flu shot (influenza vaccine) is probably also indicated.
i'm 50 years old and in fairly good health. should i have a pneumonia shot every year?