If you’re over 65 or chronically ill, it’s time to get your pneumococcal vaccine

Old Mutual Group has partnered with Goodlife Pharmacy to offer the Pneumococcal and Influenza vaccine to our insured members over 65 years and those with chronic medical conditions.

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that is commonly caused by viruses or bacteria and is spread from person-to-person by direct contact with respiratory secretions, like saliva or mucus. It can cause mild to life-threatening illness in people of all ages.

Which adults are more at risk?

Adults at a higher risk of pneumonia include those over the age of 65 and people living with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, cancer, asthma, liver disease, HIV/AIDS, sickle cell disease, or post organ transplant.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pneumonia

How many shots do you need?

The pneumococcal vaccine in adults is given as a one-off dose.

Is it safe?

Pneumococcal vaccines are safe.

Side effects may occur but most of them are mild. They include; redness, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site, fever, chills, feeling tired, loss of appetite, headache, muscle ache, or joint pain

What can you do?

Ask your doctor about vaccination against pneumococcal disease. We encourage all our insured members aged above 65 years and those with chronic medical conditions to get vaccinated. If you are an Old Mutual Health insurance client and are eligible, please book your vaccination appointment here

This article organically appeared on the Old Mutual Kenya website https://www.oldmutual.co.ke/about-us/media-centre/it-is-time-to-get-your-pneumococcal-vaccine/