Pneumococcal disease is caused by infection with the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumococcal infection can lead to: pneumonia (infection of the lungs), otitis media (infection of the middle ear), septicemia (infection of the blood), and meningitis (infection of the lining that covers the brain and spinal cord).
As we age, the risk of serious illness from pneumococcal disease increases. New Brunswickers aged 65 years and older are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia and related illnesses. Signs and symptoms of bacterial pneumonia in an adult might include a fever (temperature greater than 38.5 C) or chills, shortness of breath, cough with phlegm, rapid heart rate, chest pain, and nausea or vomiting. The severity of these illnesses can be lessened through immunization.
Beginning in December 2022, the publicly-funded pneumococcal vaccine, Pneu-P-23 or Pneumovax 23, can be administered by your community pharmacist free of charge for New Brunswickers aged 65 and older. For adults who received a pneumococcal vaccine before age 65, an additional dose should be given at or after age 65, at least five years after the previous dose. You do not need a prescription to receive a Pneumovax 23 vaccine from your pharmacist. Simply call your pharmacy to book an appointment.
Pneumovax is given as a single injection into the shoulder muscle. After injection, you may experience skin irritation (i.e. redness) or muscle soreness. These symptoms can generally be relieved with acetaminophen or by applying a cold pack to the injection site. It is safe to receive the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as influenza and/or COVID-19 vaccines.
Some New Brunswickers aged 50 and older may be at higher risk of pneumococcal infection. Risk factors include chronic lung conditions (COPD), immuno-compromising conditions (such as cancer, organ or stem cell transplant recipients, HIV), immuno-suppressing medications (such as biologics for treating rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes, smoking, and having three or more lung conditions. People who have these risk factors and become infected with pneumococcus are more likely to require hospitalization or intensive care, and there is a greater risk of death.
While Medicare covers the cost of Pneumovax 23 for eligible residents at participating pharmacies, there are other pneumococcal vaccines available for purchase that can provide adequate protection. Talk to your pharmacist about the best vaccine and the optimal timing of immunization based on your health history.
Dr. Kevin McLaughlin (PharmD, BScPharm, BSc, ACPR) practices at Kennebecasis Drugs, in Rothesay N.B. His opinions expressed in this column are published for educational and informational purposes only, and are not intended as a diagnosis, treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.