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ZEBULON - Pneumococcal Disease ..... say what? [noo-muh-kok-uh-l] ... sounds a little silly but is actually pretty serious. But if you have already had the vaccine, you probably know how to pronounce it. What you maybe didn’t know is that both PCV13 and PPSV23 are now being recommended as a two-part package. Yes, you need both vaccines.
Why is this so serious? Well, according to the CDC, Pneumococcal Disease effects and even kills thousands of adults in the United States every year. So what exactly is it? This disease is what causes pneumonia (infection of the lungs), bacteremia (infection of the blood steam), and meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). It can be passed along from person to person with direct contact through saliva or mucus. The best protection for yourself is to get the vaccination.
Though this vaccine is recommended for all ages, if you are 65 or older or considered at high risk for pneumococcal disease, you are especially recommended to receive this vaccination package. Older adults are considered at high risk due to the possibility of weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, smoking, or in some cases, living arrangements.
Call Pike County Health Department today for more information about which option is best for you and to schedule your vaccination appointment: 770.567.8972.