How Do You Prevent and Treat Pneumonia? Vaccines, Medications, and More

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Streptococcus pneumoniae, or pneumococcus, is the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia in adults, and it can be prevented with vaccines.

There are two types of vaccines to build immunity to pneumonia and other forms of pneumococcal disease:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccination for all adults age 65 and older. People in these groups should receive PCV20 or PCV21, or PCV15 followed by PPSV23.

Anyone ages 19 to 64 with certain risk factors that increase their odds of infection complications should talk with their healthcare providers about whether they would benefit from vaccination as well; the type of vaccine and number of doses may vary.

Adults at increased risk include smokers, people with conditions that weaken the immune system (such as HIV or AIDS), and patients with chronic illnesses or ongoing health challenges (such as heart, liver, kidney, or lung disease; diabetes; or alcohol use disorder).

For all babies and children under age 5, the CDC recommends a four-dose PCV series (PCV15 or PCV20). The CDC notes that some children ages 2 to 18 may need additional doses.

Pneumonia vaccine side effects are generally mild and can include pain at the site of the shot, fatigue, fever, or muscle aches.

Besides these vaccinations, other steps to protect against pneumonia include:

  • Get vaccinated to prevent other infections that may lead to pneumonia, including flu, COVID-19, and (if you are eligible) RSV. Children younger than 5 should get the Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccine.

  • Wash hands often.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Keep your immune system strong by eating well and exercising.
  • Take certain precautions if you have trouble swallowing, since food or saliva that accidentally enters the lungs can lead to bacterial pneumonia. Try eating smaller meals of thickened food and sleeping with your head elevated.
If you do get sick, take steps to prevent spreading pneumonia.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that get touched a lot.
  • Stay home when you’re ill, and keep your child home if they’re sick.

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