Question 1: Can I get the flu from the flu vaccine?

Answer 1: No, it is not possible to get influenza from the influenza vaccine. The vaccine is made with a killed virus that is not capable of causing disease.

For more information about myths regarding immunization, go to:   Vaccine Myths

 

Question 2: How many older adults die each year from vaccine preventable diseases?

Answer 2: Approximately 60,000 older adults die each year from pneumococcal pneumonia and complications of influenza. Influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia together are the sixth leading cause of death for older adults in the United States.

For more information about influenza and pneumococcal disease, go to:  Immunization Facts

 

Question 3: Does Medicare pay for the full cost of influenza and pneumococcal vaccines?

Answer 3: Yes, Medicare pays 100% of the cost for both influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. There is no cost to the Medicare recipient.

For more information about influenza and pneumococcal disease, go to:  Immunization Facts  

Question 4: What is the most common cause of pneumonia?

Answer 4: The most common causative pathogen for pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae. This organism is especially prevalent in smokers and in persons with alcoholism or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Fortunately, a vaccine is available to help prevent morbidity and mortality associated with this type of pneumonia.

For more information about pneumonia, the National Coalition on Adult Immunization has developed an online program called: Recognizing, Treating, and Preventing Infections Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.

For more information about the pneumococcal vaccine, go to Immunization Facts

 

Click here to learn Why Older Adults Should Be Immunized.