Pneumococcal Vaccination: A Triad of Protection Against Pneumonia, Influenza, and COVID-19

Pneumococcal Vaccination: A Triad of Protection Against Pneumonia, Influenza, and COVID-19

Pneumonia—a silent attacker, lurks in the shadows of winter, ready to strike the vulnerable lungs. It’s an insidious respiratory disease, a byproduct of uninvited guests like bacteria and viruses causing inflammation in the bronchi and lungs. However, its deadliest avatar, the invasive pneumococcal disease caused by pneumococcal bacteria, carries a potency that can tip the scale towards the fatal.

The Shield of Vaccination

Yet, there’s a shield—a single shot of pneumococcal vaccination. This life-saving jab has demonstrated an astounding potential to curb serious complications like sepsis and meningitis by a staggering 50-80%. Furthermore, it serves as a preventative barrier against complications arising from influenza and COVID-19. A fortress against not one, but three formidable foes—truly, a triad of protection.

Availing the Free Vaccination

It’s a call to arms, specifically for citizens aged 65 or older. Those who have not yet received the pneumococcal vaccination can avail it, free of charge, at one of the 136 designated medical institutions. All they need to bring along is their ID. However, it’s vital to ring up and check vaccine availability on the day of the visit. For the ease of access, information on nearby medical institutions can be found on the city health office website, the vaccination assistance website, or just a phone call away.

Emphasizing Health Measures

In the words of Director Jang Yeon-guk, the necessity of getting vaccinated against pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19 is non-negotiable, especially as we step into the first winter since the mask mandate was lifted. He stressed the importance of thorough hand washing and wearing masks when respiratory symptoms appear—a reminder that while the mask mandate might have been lifted, the battle against respiratory diseases is far from over.