Strong preventive efforts are essential for reducing pneumonia-related death and disability among high-risk groups such as those who are elderly, diabetic, or those with weakened immune systems. Others with chronic conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, or cancer should also be considered for pneumococcal vaccination according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Joint Commission , in conjunction with the Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), recommends pneumococcal vaccination for persons at high risk for developing pneumonia.

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) recommends pneumococcal vaccination for persons with chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, emphysema (chronic lung disease), cirrhosis (liver disease) and alcoholism. Persons greater than 65 years of age who are in good health are also encouraged to receive the pneumococcal vaccine. Re-vaccination is generally not required for persons who receive the initial vaccination at age 65 or older. Persons who are vaccinated before the age of 65 should be re-vaccinated every five years according to the CDC's recommended adult immunization schedule. Your physician may recommend a different vaccination schedule to meet your individual needs.

The most recent report (3rd Qtr.,2008) shows 91%of eligible patients at UAMS received pneumococcal vaccination unless otherwise contraindicated, compared with the national average of 87% and the University Healthsystem Consortium average of 77%. Pneumonia patients who have an up-to-date vaccination status are not eligible for re-vaccination, therefore, this number is not expected to be 100%.