Pneumococcal Pneumonia: Worth the Shot – Joint Statement by the World Coalition on Adult Vaccination

In the current climate of COVID-19 it is more important than ever to ensure the protection of older adults, and those with underlying chronic conditions, against vaccine preventable diseases. Maximizing uptake of existing vaccines for respiratory diseases, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, reduces the annual burden of disease – including increased mortality, morbidity and healthcare costs – particularly in at-risk populations.

 

 

 

While there has recently been necessary focus on the importance for influenza vaccination from governments and public health leaders around the world, pneumococcal pneumonia has unfortunately been left out of the spotlight. This is especially worrying, considering people infected with influenza who contract pneumonia experience even worse outcomes and increased hospitalization rates.

 

 

 

In the following joint statement, the World Coalition on Adult Vaccination calls on professional, patient and advocacy organizations, together with all levels of government to increase their investment in educating and encouraging older adults and those with chronic diseases to be vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.