Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi which can result in mild to severe illness in people of all ages. It can often be prevented and can usually be treated.
Pneumonia is common in young children, but older adults are at greater risk for serious infection and death. In the U.S., about 1 million people annually seek hospital care due to pneumonia, and there are about 50,000 deaths from the infection, the majority being adults. Most of the deaths could be prevented with vaccines and appropriate antibiotic or antiviral treatment. Common signs of pneumonia include cough, fever and difficulty breathing.
Certain people are more likely to become ill with pneumonia: adults 65 and older, children younger than 5 years old, people with underlying medical conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease, and those who smoke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend pneumonia vaccinations for all babies and children younger than 2 years old, all adults 65 years and older, and people between ages 2 and 64 who have underlying medical conditions.
There are two types of pneumonia vaccine available. Prevnar 13 is appropriate for all three categories. Pneumovax 23 is appropriate for adults 65 and older, people ages 2 to 64 with certain medical conditions and adults who smoke.
Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited non-profit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety, and promotes the highest quality of life. RVNA provides compassionate care to all individuals, whether young or old, through a continuum of care that encompasses health care at home and in the community. RVNA also provides home health aides and companionship through a non-medical subsidiary called HomeCare by RVNA and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy in its Rehab by RVNA facility at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.
Visit RVNA at www.ridgefieldvna.org