Good question! Yes doctors do recommend getting a “pneumonia shot.” Exactly what is this though? The vaccination is done to protect people specifically from Streptococcus Pneumonia, a type of bacterial pathogen. This vaccination is called the “Pneumovax.” It is created from dead bacteria to formulate the vaccine. This bacteria is one of the common causes of death in patients, and thus the creation of this vaccine. HOWEVER, people can still get pneumonia. There are many types of bacterial strains out in the world. For example the “Pneumovax 23” only covers for the 23 serotypes of Streptococcus. [Think of the serotypes as different  bumps and grooves on the surface of the Streptococcus bacteria causing different morphology recognized via microscopic evaluation.]  There are other bacteria to name a few such as Staphylococcus Aureus, Haemophilus Influenza and Klebsiella Pneumonia which can commonly cause pneumonia too. So remember, vaccines protect or reduce your chance of getting pneumonia, they are not 100% preventative.

Keep Healthy – DR SARELA.