Pneumonia is a disease where the lungs are inflamed.
It affects more than half a million people annually out of which about 50,000 people ultimately die.
About 50% of the patients who suffer from pneumonia are senior citizens.
Various micro organisms like fungi, virus, bacteria and other harmful parasites may cause pneumonia.
However, most of the victims suffer from bacterial infestations triggered by chemical reactions or physical injuries.
Vaccination for this disease is available in order to prevent the most severe occurrences.
People who are less than 65 years can take the vaccine.
Individuals who have crossed 65 years who have not taken the immunization for pneumonia previously can also get themselves vaccinated for pneumonia.
However, after 65 years, only one shot of the vaccine is recommended.
In fact, this vaccine is highly advisable for people who between the ages of 40 years and 50 years.
The vaccine is also recommended for children who suffer from heart diseases, kidney failure and leukemia as they have compromised immune systems.
In addition, people who have weakened immunity should definitely be vaccinated.
There is no clear evidence of how long the vaccine is effective on the human body.
Hence, how often you take the shot is not clearly documented.
Ideally, it is better to take the vaccine every 5 or 10 years depending on the overall health to be assured of protection from severity especially during the youth.
However, some experts say that frequent vaccinations may not be very effective on the body.