When Can I Get This Shot

[captainsafe]

I am 55 years of age and I have had Pneumonia twice.  I asked my doctor if I could get the pneumonia shot this year since I struggled so much last year with my second bout of Pneumonia.  He said I should only get the shot if I am 65 years old or diabetic.  I do not want to struggle this year like I did last year.  Am I too young?  Am I not eligible?  Is it a health risk for me to get this shot?

[ROB007]

Oh sorry the key thing I wanted to say was I am 56 and my doctor recommended the shot without my asking.

[ROB007]

Sorry to hear you had a second bout. I am recovering from my first that began in September and still struggling to have enough energy to work regularly. I had a Pneumovax yesterday which was a relief given my fear of another bout.
From what I read on the web they just suggest getting a second shot after a minimum of five years if you are under 65 when you get your first.
I am in Canada and maybe the rules are different here, but it makes no sense to me for you not to be able to get one. I agree with the person who recommended a second opinion.

[kjmomma]

The vaccine I believe your doctor is referring to, is Pneumovax...which protects against Pc disease. It is only given to elderly (age 65 and older) and/or those who have an already existing immunodificiency disorder.

The other brand of Pc vaccine is called Prevnar and is given to infants and children under the age of 5; however...I don't know why this vaccine couldn't be given to an adult....ask your doctor what s/he thinks; although, doctors are not medically trained in vaccinations....so you may want to get a 2nd even 3rd opinion.

HTH!