| OCR Text |
Show Pneumonia Vaccine Used In Light Of Flu Vaccine Shortage The Southwest Utah Public Health Department has been notified that flu vaccine shipments will be delayed and possibly reduced. The arrival of flu vaccine may be delayed this fall but the pneumonia vaccine is available all year. Because pneumonia is one of the main complications from influenza infection, it is being recommended to a greater extent for high-risk groups. This vaccine is a one-time shot that could save your life. More than half a million Americans suffer from pneumonia every year, typically resulting in more deaths per year than any other vaccine-preventable bacterial disease. The bacteria that causes pneumonia can lead to serious infections of the lungs, blood or brain and accounts for 25 to 35 percent of all adult pneumonia leading to hospitalizations, especially in those over 65 years of age. The symptoms of pneumonia include high fever, cough with mucus, shaking chills, breathlessness and chest pain that increases with breathing and coughing.' Confusion and disorientation are commonly found in older adults. Because of complications, the Southwest. Utah Public Health Department is recommending the pneumonia vaccine for people in these high-risk categories: People who are 65 years of age and older; People who suffer from chronic conditions such as lung or heart disease and diabetes; People who have a weakened immune system; People who are residents and staff in long-term care and nursing care facilities. A single dose of the pneumonia vaccine protects against 23 different types of the pneumonia bacteria and is usually given just once in a lifetime. Some people with certain chronic illnesses may need a dose in five years. Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotic the best protection is vaccination against pneumonia. The vaccine is safe, effective and affordable. It is also covered by Medicare Part B and can be given at any time of the year or at the same time the influenza vaccine is given. The Southwest Utah Public Health Department offers the vaccine in Garfield County in Panguitch. Call 435-676-8800 for dates and times of availability. |
