It’s flu season again – time to think vaccination, but not just for flu protection

(BPT) – Flu season is here once again, and many people will roll up their sleeves and line up for their annual flu shots. And, while immunization against the flu is important, you should know your chances for catching other serious, infectious respiratory diseases, like pneumococcal pneumonia, also increase during the fall and winter months.

So what is pneumococcal pneumonia, and why should you care? Pneumococcal pneumonia is the most common type of bacterial pneumonia. It is caused by a specific pneumococcal pneumonia bacteria that can live in the upper respiratory tract and be spread through coughing or sneezing. Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike people at any age, anywhere and anytime; however, adults age 50 and older are at an increased risk because of the naturally aging immune system.

It is important for everyone, especially those who are 50 and older, to understand their personal risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and to talk to their doctor to see if they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. To make sure you have the right tools to help keep pneumococcal pneumonia from catching you by surprise, you should understand the differences between common myths and facts.

Common myths busted

Myth: You can catch pneumococcal pneumonia by going outside with no coat and/or wet hair.

Fact: Even though the incidence of pneumococcal pneumonia increases during the fall and winter months, cold air cannot cause pneumonia. Pneumonia, an infection of the lungs, is primarily caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi that are transmitted from one person to another.

Myth: Pneumonia won’t affect me because I’m healthy and active.

Fact: Pneumonia, including pneumococcal pneumonia, can strike anyone – even healthy, active people – at any age, anywhere and anytime. Some patients may have risk factors such as their age or health conditions that can put them at a greater risk.

Myth: Pneumococcal pneumonia is no big deal.

Fact: Pneumonia can be serious and may lead to hospitalization and even death.

For more information visit: www.WhoIsAtRisk.com.