*Services and availability vary by location. Age and other restrictions may apply. For coverage, consult your health insurance company. Walk-ins welcome as time allows.
Pneumonia Vaccine Basics
Pneumococcal Disease
Pneumonia vaccines protect against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause ear and sinus infections, as well as more serious lung and blood infections.Conjugate & Polysaccharide
There are 3 pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV13, PCV15 and PCV20) and 1 polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). Which vaccine is right for you depends on your age and medical status.Age-based Recommendations
The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all children younger than 2, and all adults ages 65+. People ages 2-64 with certain medical conditions should also receive a vaccine.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The following frequently asked questions were created following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) – Prevnar13
- PCV15 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) – Vaxneuvance
- PCV20 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) – Prevnar20
- PPSV23 (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) – Pneumovax23
- Are 65 years and older
- Are 19-64 years old and have certain medical conditions or other risk factors
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause mild to severe illness in people of all ages.
Anyone can get pneumococcal disease, but some people are at increased risk. Being a certain age (over 65) or having certain medical conditions (including diabetes, heart, lung, kidney disease and a history of tobacco use) can increase a person’s risk for pneumococcal disease. Vaccines are the best way to prevent pneumococcal disease!
There are four available vaccines:
PCV13 and PCV15 are available for children. Adults may receive PCV15, PCV20 and/or PPSV23, which also protect against invasive pneumococcal bacteria. PCV20 is a one-dose vaccine series whereas PCV15 is given with PPSV23. The CDC does not have a preference for either the single-dose or two-dose series. Talk to your healthcare provider today to decide which is best for you.
The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all children younger than 2 years of age and all adults 65 years or older. People aged 2-64 with certain medical conditions should also receive a pneumococcal vaccine. Talk to your healthcare provider today to discuss which vaccine is appropriate for you!
All children younger than 5 years old and children 5-18 years old with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of pneumococcal disease should receive PCV13 or PCV15. Children 2-18 years old with certain medical conditions should also receive PPSV23.
Adults who have never received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine should receive PCV15 or PCV20 if they:
If PCV15 is used, it should be followed by a dose of PPSV23.
Some groups may need multiple or booster doses. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive additional doses of the pneumococcal vaccine.
Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, like the pneumonia vaccine, may be administered on the same day or at any interval, without regard to timing.
Yes, co-administration of vaccines is generally safe, effective and convenient. Side effects from receiving multiple vaccines at the same time are rare and usually mild. For more information, refer to the CDC’s guidelines on receiving multiple vaccines.
Kroger Health offers a wide range of health services, including vaccines, health screenings and more, tailored to meet the needs of your business, community or organization. Visit us at krogerhealth.com or e-mail the team at KHB2B@krogerhealth.com to learn more.
For more frequently asked questions and information, please visit the CDC’s pneumonia vaccination website.
Other Recommended Vaccines
Are you up to date on all your vaccines? While getting your pneumonia vaccine, you can also get vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, RSV and more.
Flu Vaccine
It’s recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months receive a yearly flu vaccine.COVID-19 Vaccine
Everyone aged 6 months and older is eligible for an annual COVID-19 vaccine.RSV Vaccine
Pregnant patients (32-36 weeks), adults 60-74 with medical conditions and those 75+ may be eligible.Tools & Resources
Services and availability vary by location. Pharmacy, Clinic, and Telenutrition services are available in select areas. Access our pharmacy locator to find a pharmacy near you. The Little Clinic practices in the following states only: AZ, KY, OH, TN, CO, IN, GA, KS, VA. Access our clinic locator to find a clinic near you. Telenutrition services where medical nutrition therapy is provided are not available in AK, MT, NJ, NY, SC, WY, or where otherwise prohibited by applicable law. Walk-ins welcome as time allows.