Pneumonia Vaccines for Seniors in Tampa, FL

Florida continues to be one of the most popular destinations for retirees, with Tampa's boomer population growing by more than 9%, according to Axios Tampa Bay. Seniors choose Tampa for its temperate weather as they pay more attention to age-related health changes.

However, for seniors in Tampa, there's another concern that deserves more attention: pneumonia. This lung infection can have serious consequences for senior health.

The good news is that treatments and pneumonia vaccines for seniors are available to older adults in Tampa. Discover information about flu and pneumonia shots and preventative health tips in this comprehensive guide.

What Is Pneumonia?

Understanding pneumonia can shed greater light on treatment and prevention strategies for seniors.

The air sacs in human lungs are called alveoli. They're often described as "tiny balloons" that fill with air normally in healthy lungs; they allow people to breathe easily.

However, when adults catch pneumonia, these air sacs become inflamed and fill with fluid (or pus), making it incredibly difficult to breathe. This inflammation and fluid buildup are almost always triggered by an infection.

What Causes Pneumonia?

The most common offender is bacteria, often Streptococcus pneumoniae. Next are viruses, especially influenza, commonly known as "the flu."

Respiratory syncytial viruses, or RSVs, are also frequent causes of pneumonia. This is the virus responsible for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2).

Fungal pneumonia is possible, but it's less common than other forms. Bacteria-like organisms called Mycoplasma pneumoniae can also cause pneumonia; this case is referred to as "walking pneumonia" due to its often milder symptoms. 

Pneumonia is also categorized by where it's contracted.

For example, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) occurs outside of healthcare settings. Healthcare-associated pneumonia develops in healthcare centers; hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) develops specifically during a hospital stay.

There's also ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which occurs in patients who are on ventilators.

Anyone can get pneumonia, but some age groups are at a higher risk, particularly young children and seniors. One group has a developing immune system, while the other is dealing with weakening immune systems. Individuals with health conditions also carry a higher risk.

What Are the General Symptoms of Pneumonia?

It's important to note that symptoms can vary. Common symptoms include persistent wet (or dry) coughs accompanied by a fever and chills. Patients often experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Chest pains that produce "sharp" or "stabbing" feelings are another sign. General fatigue or a loss of appetite is also cause for concern. Even general tiredness could indicate pneumonia.

Why Tampa Seniors Are at Higher Risk

Seniors are more susceptible to catching pneumonia and experiencing more severe symptoms. This is due to a number of reasons, including immune systems that naturally weaken with age. The term for this natural occurrence is called immunosenescence, meaning the body is less equipped to defend itself against pneumonia-causing pathogens.

Seniors with chronic health conditions have an increased risk, including those with the following conditions:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Asthma
• Heart disease
• Diabetes

These conditions can impair lung function, making seniors more vulnerable to infection and increasing the severity of the pneumonia case.

Another risk to strongly consider is impaired swallowing and breathing in seniors. Conditions like dementia and Parkinson's disease can make swallowing difficult, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. This type of pneumonia causes food and liquid to enter the lungs (not the stomach), which carries bacteria.

Seniors have an increased risk of hospitalization for pneumonia. Unfortunately, hospital stays, while necessary, can expose seniors to even more pneumonia-causing pathogens, including more resistant strains.

Pneumonia in seniors can progress rapidly, leading to severe illness and higher mortality rates compared to younger age groups. Older adults are more prone to such complications as:

• Fluid buildup in the lungs (pleural effusion)
• Respiratory failure
• Sepsis from infection
• Possible death

It's critical to watch for atypical symptoms in seniors. Pneumonia doesn't always present as a cough or fever. Atypical symptoms may include:

• General confusion
• Weakness
• Declines in function

Given such heightened risks, prevention and prompt care are crucial for Tampa's senior population.

Understanding Pneumonia Vaccines for Seniors

While seniors remain at high risk, effective pneumonia vaccines help tremendously. Adult immunizations are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare; they protect against pneumococcal infections, which can lead to:

• Pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Bloodstream infections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends pneumococcal vaccines for senior adults aged 65 years and older.

Various pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for seniors by doctors.

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCV) offer broader protection against more serotypes (strains) of the bacteria. An example is PCV20 (Prevnar 20®), a single-dose vaccine that protects against 20 serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae; a single shot is sufficient for seniors.

PCV15 (Vaxneuvance™) is another PCV vaccine that protects against 15 serotypes. This vaccine must be followed by a dose of PPSV23 (Pneumovax 23®) within 6-12 months to provide stronger protection.

Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23) safeguards against 23 serotypes. This is a follow-up to the PCV15 and PCV13 vaccines.

How Are Vaccines Administered?

Senior vaccine schedule recommendations depend on several factors:

• Age
• Previous vaccination history
• Individual health conditions

Seniors who've received both PCV13 (Prevnar 13®) and PPSV23 vaccines should consult with their doctor about immunization schedules. A doctor can help determine if additional PCV vaccinations are appropriate for further protection.

A doctor can also explain possible side effects in detail. Generally, most people experience only mild side effects after pneumonia vaccinations. Typical injection site side effects include:

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling

Side effects usually resolve within a day or two.

The first step is always to consult a doctor or pharmacist about vaccinations. A professional can:

• Review medical history
• Discuss risk factors
• Determine the best vaccine and schedule for you

Seniors and caregivers can also find reliable information on vaccines from the CDC.

Focus On Vaccine Wellness For Aging Adults

Living in Tampa offers a beautiful backdrop for those valuable senior years. Consulting with a doctor about pneumonia vaccines for seniors can help aging loved ones enjoy all that Tampa has to offer.

Aston Gardens at Tampa Bay is built on a strong foundation of senior wellness. Our nutrient-packed senior dining and activities program works together to promote healthy aging at every stage. The leadership team also brings diverse experience to the community, from education to geriatric studies.

Reach out to us today to discuss your goals for senior living!