What is the recommended age for the pneumococcal vaccine?

The recommended age for the pneumococcal vaccine is 65 years. This guideline is established by health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is rooted in the increased risk for pneumococcal disease among older adults. Individuals aged 65 and older have a weakened immune system and are more susceptible to infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

Getting vaccinated at this age helps to provide an additional layer of protection, as the immune response to vaccines may not be as robust in older populations. The vaccine not only protects the vaccinated individuals but also contributes to community immunity, reducing the overall incidence of pneumococcal disease within the population.

In summary, the age of 65 is the threshold after which vaccination is strongly recommended to mitigate the risk of pneumococcal infections, which become more prevalent with advancing age.