Most people know they should get a flu shot every year. But when it comes to the pneumonia vaccine, there is a lot of confusion. Do you need it? How is it different from the flu vaccine? Can you get both at the same time?
This guide answers all of that clearly, so you can make an informed decision about protecting your health.
What Is the Flu Vaccine?
The flu vaccine protects against influenza viruses. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads every winter season. It can cause fever, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, and cough.
For most healthy adults, the flu is miserable but manageable. But for older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions, influenza can lead to hospitalization and serious complications, including pneumonia.
Key facts about the flu vaccine:
- Given once a year, every year
- Updated annually to match circulating strains
- Available as a shot or nasal spray
- Recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older
- Best given in September or October before flu season peaks
The flu vaccine does not protect against pneumococcal pneumonia. These are two completely different infections caused by different pathogens.
What Is the Pneumonia Vaccine?
The pneumonia vaccine protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a type of bacteria responsible for a large portion of serious pneumonia cases. This same bacteria can also cause meningitis, bloodstream infections, and ear infections.
Unlike the flu vaccine, you do not get the pneumonia vaccine every year. Most adults only need it once or twice in their lifetime depending on their age and health status.
There are currently two main types of pneumococcal vaccines available:
Prevnar 20 (PCV20)
Prevnar 20 is a conjugate vaccine that covers 20 strains of pneumococcal bacteria. It is now the preferred option for most adults aged 65 and older and for younger adults with certain health conditions.
Pneumovax 23 (PPSV23)
Pneumovax 23 is a polysaccharide vaccine that covers 23 strains. It has been in use for decades and is still recommended in certain dosing schedules, particularly for high-risk individuals.
Your doctor or pharmacist at Pottery Road Pharmacy can help you figure out which version is right for you based on your age, vaccination history, and medical conditions.
Flu Vaccine vs Pneumonia Vaccine: Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Flu Vaccine | Pneumonia Vaccine |
| What it protects against | Influenza virus | Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria |
| How often | Every year | Once or twice in a lifetime |
| Who needs it | Everyone 6 months+ | Adults 65+, high-risk groups |
| When to get it | September to October | Anytime, per schedule |
| Can you get both together | Yes | Yes |
| Available at pharmacy | Yes | Yes |
Who Needs a Pneumonia Vaccine?
The CDC recommends the pneumonia vaccine for:
- All adults aged 65 and older
- Adults aged 19 to 64 who smoke cigarettes
- Adults aged 19 to 64 with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, or liver disease
- Adults aged 19 to 64 with weakened immune systems (including HIV, cancer treatment, or organ transplants)
- Adults aged 19 to 64 who have cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks
If you are 65 or older and have never had a pneumococcal vaccine, a single dose of Prevnar 20 is now the standard recommendation. If you already received an older version of the vaccine, talk to your pharmacist about whether you need a follow-up dose.
Can You Get the Flu Shot and Pneumonia Vaccine at the Same Time?
Yes. Getting both vaccines on the same day is safe and effective. The CDC and most health authorities encourage this because it reduces visits and increases the chance that people actually get both shots done.
You may experience mild side effects at the injection sites, but this is normal and usually resolves within a day or two.
At Pottery Road Pharmacy, both vaccines are available without a long wait. Walk in or book a quick appointment to get both done in one visit.
Pneumonia Vaccine Side Effects
The pneumonia vaccine is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
These side effects are a normal immune response and typically go away within 1 to 3 days. Serious allergic reactions are rare.
If you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of any pneumococcal vaccine, tell your pharmacist or doctor before getting vaccinated.
Pneumonia Vaccine Schedule for Adults
The schedule depends on your age and health:
Adults 65 and older (never vaccinated): One dose of Prevnar 20 (PCV20). That is typically all you need.
Adults 65 and older (previously vaccinated with PPSV23): One dose of Prevnar 20 or Prevnar 15, given at least one year after the last pneumococcal vaccine.
Adults aged 19 to 64 with high-risk conditions: Talk to your provider. You may need PCV15 followed by PPSV23, or PCV20 as a single dose.
The schedule can feel confusing, but your pharmacist can look up your vaccination history and tell you exactly what you need.
Does the Flu Vaccine Prevent Pneumonia?
Not directly. The flu vaccine prevents influenza, but one of the most common complications of influenza is bacterial pneumonia. So getting your annual flu shot does reduce your risk of developing pneumonia as a secondary infection.
However, the flu vaccine does not protect against pneumococcal bacteria. That is what the pneumonia vaccine is for. The two vaccines work together as a layer of protection, not as substitutes for each other.
Where to Get the Pneumonia Vaccine
You can get the pneumonia vaccine at:
- Your doctor’s office
- Community health clinics
- Local pharmacies
Pharmacies are often the most convenient option. No referral needed, appointments usually available same day, and your pharmacist can also review your full vaccination history and answer questions on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a pneumonia vaccine and a flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine protects against influenza viruses and is given every year. The pneumonia vaccine protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and is given once or twice in a lifetime, mainly for adults over 65 and high-risk groups. They protect against different illnesses and are both recommended for older adults.
Can you get the flu shot and pneumonia shot at the same time?
Yes. It is safe to receive both vaccines during the same visit. Many pharmacies, including Pottery Road Pharmacy, offer both vaccines together so you can protect yourself against flu and pneumococcal disease in a single appointment.
How often do you need the pneumonia vaccine?
Most adults only need the pneumonia vaccine once, with a possible second dose depending on age and health conditions. Unlike the flu vaccine, it is not an annual shot.
Who should get the pneumonia vaccine?
The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 65 and older, adults who smoke, and adults aged 19 to 64 with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or a weakened immune system.
Is the pneumonia vaccine covered by Medicare?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers pneumococcal vaccines as a preventive benefit for eligible adults with no cost-sharing. Most private insurance plans also cover it at no cost.
What are the side effects of the pneumonia vaccine?
Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, mild fatigue, and low-grade fever. These usually resolve within 1 to 3 days. Serious side effects are rare.
Does the flu vaccine protect against pneumonia?
The flu vaccine reduces your risk of pneumonia indirectly by preventing influenza, which can lead to bacterial pneumonia. But it does not protect against pneumococcal bacteria. For full protection, you need both the flu vaccine and the pneumonia vaccine.
What is the best pneumonia vaccine for adults in 2024 and 2025?
Prevnar 20 (PCV20) is now the preferred pneumococcal vaccine for most adults 65 and older. It covers 20 bacterial strains and is recommended by the CDC as a single-dose option for eligible adults.
Can younger adults get the pneumonia vaccine?
Yes. Adults aged 19 to 64 who smoke or have certain chronic health conditions are also recommended to get the pneumonia vaccine. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to find out if you qualify.
How do I know if I have already had the pneumonia vaccine?
Check with your doctor’s office or ask your pharmacist to look up your vaccination history. Many pharmacy systems and state immunization registries track past vaccines.
Protect Yourself This Season
Both the flu vaccine and the pneumonia vaccine play different but equally important roles in keeping you healthy. If you are 65 or older, have a chronic condition, or have never been vaccinated for pneumococcal disease, now is a good time to check your vaccination status.
Book Your Vaccine Appointment at Pottery Road Pharmacy
Ready to get protected?
Walk into Pottery Road Pharmacy or call ahead to book your flu shot and pneumonia vaccine in one quick visit. Our pharmacists can review your vaccination history, answer your questions, and make sure you get exactly what you need.
No long waits. No referral needed. Just straightforward care.
