Pneumococcal disease (Pneumonia) is generally caused by the Bacterium Streptococcus Pneumoniae and it is the most common complication of the flu. Infection is acquired by direct person-to-person contact via respiratory droplets. Travelers at risk to contract Pneumonia include children under 5; adults older than 55; those with sickle cell disease and other blood diseases, diabetes, HIV, chronic renal (kidney) failure, cerebrospinal leaks and people with compromised immune systems. There are several drug-resistant strains of the bacterium that causes Pneumonia and that is why travelers should consider the vaccine if they are at high risk.
The Pneuomococcal vaccine is available at all Passport Health locations.
Source: CDC Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): Pneumococcal Polysaccharide 7/29/97
So, if you are asking yourself, “what shots do I need?” click here to locate the Passport Health location nearest you, or call 888-499-PASS (7277).
You can also click here to learn more about diseases and vaccines that may impact your trip.
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