This disease commonly affects persons over the age of 65, the very young and high-risk patients. The pneumococcal vaccine, also known as Pneumovax, is made up of 23 different types of killed bacteria, which means it can prevent 23 types of pneumonia. Unlike the flu vaccine, the pneumonia vaccine can be given anytime of the year. The Pneumovax vaccine is usually given only once, some people may need to be revaccinated. Your physician or pharmacist can help you determine if you need to be revaccinated.
Pneumonia vaccines are very safe.
Half of the vaccinated persons may experience mild side effects, such as minor pain or redness at the injection site. More severe allergic reactions such as fever or rash are very rare. People who are ill or have a fever should wait until they are better before taking the vaccination. It is available in hospitals, clinics and pharmacies. United Supermarkets pharmacies have professionally trained staffs to administer and answer questions about the vaccine.