What pneumonia shot should a 70 year old get?

According to the CDC, pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia, is a serious illness that can lead to severe health complications, especially in older adults. To make an informed decision, it's critical to understand what pneumonia shot should a 70 year old get based on the most current guidance.

Quick Summary

Adults aged 70 who haven't previously received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) should get one dose of PCV20 or PCV15; if PCV15 is chosen, it must be followed by a dose of PPSV23 at least one year later. The decision depends on prior vaccination history and a discussion with a healthcare provider.

Key Points

• Initial Vaccine: For those with no prior pneumococcal shots, a 70-year-old should receive either a single dose of PCV20 or a series of PCV15 followed by PPSV23.

• PCV20 is an Option: A single dose of PCV20 provides broad coverage and is a simple, effective option for those who have not had a previous PCV.

• Consider PCV15 + PPSV23: Alternatively, a 70-year-old can opt for PCV15, which is then followed by a dose of PPSV23 at least a year later.

• If Previously Vaccinated: If a 70-year-old has only had PPSV23 or PCV13, they will likely need a dose of PCV20, administered at least a year after the last vaccine.

• Consult a Doctor: The most critical step is to consult with a healthcare provider to review vaccination history and make a personalized recommendation.

• Preventive Care: Getting the correct pneumonia shot is a vital part of proactive healthcare for seniors to protect against serious pneumococcal diseases.

Understanding Pneumonia Vaccines for Older Adults

For adults aged 65 and older, including those who are 70, pneumococcal vaccination is a crucial part of preventive healthcare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides updated recommendations to protect against pneumococcal disease, which can cause severe illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The two primary types of vaccines involved are pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccines (PPSV).

Current CDC Guidelines for a 70-Year-Old

Recent guidelines from the CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) have simplified the recommendations for seniors. The choice of vaccine depends largely on whether a person has previously received any pneumococcal vaccines.

If you have NEVER received a pneumococcal vaccine:

• Option 1: One dose of PCV20. This vaccine (brand names include Prevnar 20) offers broad protection and completes the vaccination series in a single shot. For most adults, this is the simplest and most straightforward option.
• Option 2: One dose of PCV15, followed by one dose of PPSV23. This option (brand names include Vaxneuvance for PCV15 and Pneumovax 23 for PPSV23) involves two separate shots. The PPSV23 shot is administered at least one year after the PCV15 dose.

If you have previously received ONLY PPSV23:

• One dose of PCV20. This should be administered at least one year after the last PPSV23 dose you received. This updates your protection with the newer conjugate vaccine technology.

If you have previously received ONLY PCV13:

• One dose of PCV20. This should be administered at least one year after your last PCV13 dose to provide broader coverage.

The Importance of Shared Clinical Decision-Making

In some complex cases, particularly for those with certain health conditions or a specific vaccination history, a healthcare provider might recommend a different approach. This is known as shared clinical decision-making. Your doctor can evaluate your medical history and discuss the best course of action with you to ensure you receive the most effective and personalized protection.

Comparing PCV and PPSV Vaccines

Understanding the differences between the vaccine types helps clarify why specific sequences are recommended. While both offer protection against pneumococcal disease, their mechanism and range of coverage differ.

Feature	Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCV15, PCV20)	Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23)
Technology	Conjugate vaccines link a sugar molecule from the bacteria to a carrier protein, which helps stimulate a stronger immune response, especially in older adults.	A polysaccharide vaccine that uses the sugar molecules from the bacteria's capsule to elicit an immune response.
Immune Response	Creates long-lasting immunity with a stronger T-cell response.	Elicits a more short-term immune response that may not be as robust in very old adults.
Coverage	PCV15: Protects against 15 serotypes. PCV20: Protects against 20 serotypes.	Protects against 23 serotypes, including some that PCV15/20 do not cover.
Schedule	Often a single dose for broader coverage (PCV20) or requires a follow-up PPSV23 dose (PCV15).	Used as a booster dose after PCV15 in some cases or in specific age/risk groups.
Primary Use	Recommended for initial vaccination in older adults to build a strong foundational immunity.	Often used to complement PCV coverage for additional serotypes or in specific, provider-recommended cases.

Why a 70-Year-Old Needs to be Vaccinated

As we age, our immune system can become less robust, making us more vulnerable to infections. Pneumococcal disease can be particularly dangerous for seniors, with a higher risk of serious outcomes, including death. Vaccination is one of the most effective tools for preventing these severe infections and their potentially life-altering complications, such as brain damage or hearing loss.

The Takeaway: Consulting Your Doctor

While the general guidelines provide a clear path forward, the most important step for a 70-year-old is to consult with their healthcare provider. The provider can review your specific vaccination records and health status to recommend the precise vaccine or sequence of vaccines that will provide the best protection. This is especially important for those with conditions like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. The CDC's PneumoRecs VaxAdvisor mobile app is a tool providers can use to quickly determine the correct vaccination schedule for a patient. For more information on immunizations, the CDC's website is a valuable resource: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/pneumo.html.

The Administration Process

Getting your pneumonia shot is a simple process. The vaccines are administered via a single shot in the upper arm. Side effects are typically mild and localized, including soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some people may experience a low-grade fever, muscle aches, or fatigue. Serious side effects are rare. Most adults can receive their pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, such as the flu shot, if the timing is appropriate. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the best timing for multiple immunizations.

Staying Up-to-Date

Vaccination recommendations evolve as new research and vaccines become available. Staying informed is key. For a 70-year-old, understanding what pneumonia shot should a 70 year old get involves being aware of their vaccination history and following their doctor's guidance based on the latest recommendations. Proactive vaccination helps maintain health and independence throughout the aging process.

Conclusion

For a 70-year-old, the recommended pneumonia vaccine strategy has been simplified by the CDC. The primary options are a single dose of PCV20 or a two-shot series of PCV15 followed by PPSV23. The best choice depends on your previous vaccination history, if any. Always discuss your specific health situation with a doctor or pharmacist to determine the most appropriate vaccine for your needs. Taking this step is a simple yet powerful way to protect against serious illness and support healthy aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my pneumonia shot at the same time as my flu shot?

Yes, for many people, it is safe to receive both the pneumococcal vaccine and the seasonal flu vaccine during the same visit. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if this is the right option for you.

If I had a pneumonia shot before age 65, do I need another one at 70?

Most likely, yes. If you received a pneumococcal vaccine before turning 65, your healthcare provider will assess your vaccination history and recommend the most current and appropriate vaccine series to ensure continued protection.

What is the difference between PCV20 and PPSV23?

PCV20 is a conjugate vaccine that elicits a strong, long-lasting immune response and covers 20 serotypes. PPSV23 is a polysaccharide vaccine that covers 23 serotypes but creates a less robust immune response, particularly in older adults, and is often used as a booster or to complement PCV coverage.

What are the common side effects of the pneumonia shot for seniors?

Side effects are usually mild and may include pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Some people may also experience a mild fever, muscle aches, or fatigue, which typically resolve within a day or two.

Is the pneumonia shot free for 70-year-olds on Medicare?

For most individuals on Medicare Part B, the pneumococcal vaccines are covered and typically have no out-of-pocket costs. It's always a good idea to confirm your specific coverage details with your Medicare plan provider.

How long does the pneumonia shot protect you?

The duration of protection varies by vaccine type and individual. The PCV vaccines provide robust and long-lasting protection. The two-dose series (PCV15 followed by PPSV23) offers protection against a broad range of serotypes. Regular consultation with your doctor will ensure your immunity remains current.

What if I can't remember my vaccination history?

If you don't remember which pneumococcal vaccines you've received, your doctor can help. They may be able to access your immunization records or will treat you as if you have not been vaccinated and start the recommended series with PCV20 to ensure you are properly protected.