Why do you have to be 65 to get the pneumonia shot?

I think you can get the pneumococcal vaccine at any age, but a higher dose at 65...? I was hospitalized with a very bad case of mycoplasma (viral) pneumonia in 2014 and the pulmonologist who looked after my case/follow-up strongly encouraged me to get the pneumococcal vaccine after I was discharged (which I did - I was in my 30s at the time).

Cost.

There is a cost-benefit between the costs of the vaccine and the people that would benefit.

Older people are both more susceptible to pneumonia, and it's likely to be more deadly if contracted.

You could get one earlier, but it would cost probably $800 depending on where you live.

Can't the covid vaccine orotect us from viral pneumonia?

Not sure where you're hearing that OP. When I was 55 I had the shot at the local pharmacy and only had to pay my regular copay.

Sunday brunch with the eldergheys, r4.

There are several different pneumonia vaccines. At least one of them is intended for people over 65, and maybe two of them. One is available for people at any age.

You don't have to be. Whoever told you that is wrong.

I heard it on TV. I think it was Prevnar?

The commercial said multiple times that it was for people over 65.

That is why I was wondering r1. I had pneumonia very young too 4 years ago.

What kind did you get r1? Prevnar?

You do not have to be 65 for the vaccine to be effective.

You have to be 65 (or at least over 60 in most cases) for insurance to cover it.

tried to get a shot (i'm in my mid 50's) and was told that I could not because of my age, non smoker. That by LAW? they could not give me one even if I wanted one and was willing to pay for it. I had to go to my primary doctor to get the shot! Strange because anyone get can sick and even die from pneumonia at any age!..

That sort of happened to me. The doctor said sure get it but the pharmacist was like you are young and healthy (? she asked) then she shook her head don't get this.

Yes R8 I believe it was Prevnar. It had never occurred to me to get that particular vaccine before, nor was it ever recommended, nor had I ever had pneumonia prior to that very bad infection in '14.

Where do you people live & what kind of insurance do you have? Sounds fucking primitive.