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Why pneumococcal vaccines at 50? Understanding the updated CDC recommendations

In October 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lowered the recommended age for routine pneumococcal vaccination from 65 to 50. This significant policy change prompts the question: **Why pneumococcal vaccines at 50?** The answer lies in protecting a vulnerable population from the increased risk of severe illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria, particularly pneumonia and meningitis.