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In a significant move aimed at curbing serious illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that all adults aged 50 to 64 receive the pneumococcal vaccine. The announcement marks an expansion from the previous guidance, which recommended the vaccine primarily for individuals 65 and older, as well as younger adults with certain health conditions.
The CDC’s independent expert advisory panel issued this new recommendation on Wednesday, with CDC Director Mandy Cohen, MD, MPH, formally endorsing it the same day. Pneumococcal disease, caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), can lead to severe health complications, particularly in adults with underlying health conditions. By broadening the age group for vaccination, the CDC hopes to provide more robust protection to a population increasingly vulnerable to pneumococcal infection.
The Importance of Early Protection
According to CDC data, nearly 90% of individuals aged 50 to 64 hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia had at least one other health condition that heightened their risk for infection. Among the risk factors identified are heart disease, lung disease, liver disease, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism, cancer, and weakened immune systems. An estimated 32% to 54% of people in this age group fall into the high-risk category, underscoring the importance of early preventive measures.
Lowering the vaccination age, the CDC notes, offers more adults the opportunity to protect themselves at a time when their risk of infection begins to substantially increase. This policy change also aims to address disparities in healthcare access, particularly among racial groups disproportionately affected by pneumococcal disease.
“Lowering the age for pneumococcal vaccination gives more adults the opportunity to protect themselves from pneumococcal disease at the age when risk of infection substantially increases,” the CDC said in a statement.
Long-Lasting Vaccine Protection
The pneumococcal vaccine offers long-term protection, with studies suggesting that its efficacy lasts between 10 and 20 years. While the vaccine is available year-round, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated now in preparation for the winter respiratory season when infections tend to spike.
For those concerned about cost, the price of the vaccine in 2023 ranged from $261 to $319, though insurance plans, including Medicare, may cover the expense for eligible individuals.
With this new recommendation, people aged 50 to 64 have one more vaccine to consider alongside their annual flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine, if applicable. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in reducing the burden of pneumococcal disease and preventing hospitalizations and severe outcomes in high-risk populations.
Preparing for the Winter Respiratory Season
As the colder months approach, the CDC encourages people to consult their healthcare providers about the pneumococcal vaccine, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions. This vaccine could be a vital component in reducing respiratory illness complications during the upcoming winter months, a season when respiratory infections tend to rise.
For more information on the CDC’s updated recommendations and how to access the pneumococcal vaccine, visit the CDC’s official website or speak with your healthcare provider.
