Importance of Vaccines
Vaccines are a critical part of managing your respiratory disease. The flu and pneumonia vaccines are especially important. The flu may seem like a common illness, but for people with respiratory problems, it can lead to severe problems like pneumonia, making breathing extremely difficult. Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can cause your respiratory symptoms to worsen, sometimes requiring hospitalization. By getting these vaccines, you are taking a major step in reducing your risk of flare-ups and keeping your lungs strong.
Other vaccines, such as COVID-19 and boosters, are also essential. COVID-19 can severely impact your lungs, but being vaccinated reduces your risk of severe illness. Vaccines like the Tdap (for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), RSV and shingles vaccines are also recommended for people with respiratory conditions, as these illnesses can weaken your immune system and put additional stress on your body.
Vaccines and Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Based on the CDC's official guidelines from the website CDC Vaccines for Adults, here are the current recommendations for vaccinations for people with chronic respiratory diseases:
Pneumococcal Vaccine:
- PCV15 or PCV20: Recommended for adults aged 65 and older and for younger adults with certain health conditions, including COPD and other respiratory diseases. If you have had PCV13 before age 65, a dose of PCV20 is recommended at age 65 or older.
- PPSV23: For adults under 65 with COPD, PPSV23 is recommended. If you received PPSV23 before age 65, another dose might be needed after age 65.
Influenza Vaccine:
- Annual vaccination: Recommended for all adults, particularly those with chronic conditions like COPD. The flu vaccine helps protect against influenza, which can exacerbate COPD.
COVID-19 Vaccine:
- Annual vaccination: The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone, including those with COPD, to prevent severe illness from COVID-19. Follow-up boosters may be advised based on current health conditions and updated recommendations.
Tdap Vaccine:
- Booster every 10 years: The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis can be particularly dangerous for people with COPD, so maintaining this vaccination is important.
Shingles Vaccine:
- Two doses, 2-6 months apart: This is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, including those with COPD. The vaccine helps prevent shingles, which can be more severe for individuals with chronic conditions. A booster is recommended every 5 years.
RSV Vaccine:
- Newly recommended: The RSV vaccine is advised for certain populations, including older adults with chronic health conditions. This vaccine was introduced recently, so it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider whether it’s appropriate.
Vaccines are one of the simplest, most effective ways to keep your lungs in better shape. Remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you and make a plan to stay up-to-date. You deserve to feel your best and protect your lungs for the future.