Pneumococcal disease can lead to serious and even life-threatening infections of the lungs (pneumonia), the blood (bacteremia), and the covering of the brain (meningitis). Pneumococcal vaccine protects against these infections. You are at risk for pneumococcal disease if you

• Are 65 years of age or older.



• Are 2 - 64 years of age and have a chronic illness or other risk factors including: heart, lung, liver, kidney, or sickle cell disease; diabetes; cancer; HIV/AIDS; chronic alcoholism; a weakened immune system; a removed or dysfunctional spleen; cerebrospinal fluid leaks; or cochlear implants.



• Are 19 - 64 years of age and have asthma or are a current cigarette smoker.



• Are a resident of a nursing home or other long-term care facility.

Note: In special situations, public health authorities may recommend PPSV23 for Alaska Natives and American Indians aged 50 through 64 years who are living in areas in which the risk of invasive pneumococcal disease is increased.