get a viral influenza (flu) vaccine (shot) each year. flu vaccines are prepared annually in anticipation of that year's virus strain. influenza can make pneumonia infection more likely. get the pneumonia vaccine to protect yourself against streptococcus pneumoniae. get treated for any other infections in the respiratory system especially those in the lungs. wash your hands before eating before preparing food and after going outside. try to avoid people who have colds or the flu. ask them to visit you when they are feeling better. eat a healthy diet exercise and get plenty of rest. contact your doctor if you think you have symptoms. don't wait for symptoms to worsen as you may develop an emergency condition. don't smoke. don't use alcohol heavily.
how can i protect myself from pneumonia?