Pneumonia Factsheet
Pneumonia Factsheet
Pneumonia Factsheet
General Information
PNEUMOCOCCAL DISEASE
Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, also
called pneumococcus.
Pneumococcus can cause many types of infections; some may lead to severe illness or death.
Pneumococcus is one of the most common causes of severe pneumonia.
People at high risk for pneumococcal disease include:
Adults age 65 years or older.
Persons with certain chronic illnesses or conditions.
Smokers.
Very young children.
PNEUMONIA
Is an infection of one or both lungs from bacteria, viruses, fungi or even a parasite.
Signs include fever, chills, coughing, fatigue, rapid breathing, and shortness of breath or
chest pain.
Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is called pneumococcal pneumonia.
PNEUMOCOCCAL PNEUMONIA
Is the most common type of pneumococcal disease in adults.
Occurs in about 175,000 Americans each year.
Causes thousands hospitalizations and over 10,000 deaths each year in the U. S.
PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE
There are 2 types of pneumococcal vaccine. Ask your healthcare provider about your options based on your age,
medical conditions, and any past vaccinations. Some people are recommended to receive both PCV13 and PPSV23
vaccines, and others need only PPSV23.
www.publichealth.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn