CDC Lowers Pneumococcal Vaccine Age Recommendation to 50
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials on Wednesday recommended that people aged 50 and older receive a vaccination against bacteria that can cause pneumonia and other serious illnesses.
This recommendation was made by a scientific advisory panel and subsequently accepted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lowering the minimum recommended age for vaccination from 65.
“Now is a great time to get vaccinated against pneumococcal disease in preparation for the winter respiratory season,” CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen stated.
The advisory committee voted 14-1 to make this change during a meeting held earlier in the day in Atlanta. This guidance is widely followed by healthcare providers and encourages health insurers to cover the costs of the recommended vaccinations.
Pneumococcal vaccination recommendations are often considered among the most complex issued by the government. The CDC currently recommends vaccinations for children under the age of 5 and adults aged 65 and older who have not previously received a pneumococcal vaccine. Additionally, individuals at increased risk for pneumococcal disease, such as those with diabetes or chronic liver disease, are also advised to receive the vaccine.
Over 100 known types of pneumococcal bacteria exist, capable of causing severe infections in the lungs and other areas of the body. The U.S. records approximately 30,000 cases of invasive pneumococcal disease annually, which may include blood infections and inflammation of the brain and spine. Notably, around 30% of these cases occur in individuals aged 50 to 64.
The first pneumococcal vaccine was approved for use in 1977, and pharmaceutical advancements have led to the development of new versions targeting multiple types in a single shot. Currently, four vaccines are available. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Merck’s Capvaxive, which costs around $300 per dose and protects against 21 types, including eight not featured in other vaccines. A Merck representative stated that this vaccine was specifically designed to protect against the types of bacteria that most frequently cause severe disease in adults aged 50 and older.
In June, the CDC’s advisory panel recommended this vaccine as an option for higher-risk adults. During discussions, the committee noted that illness-causing infections peak between ages 55 and 59 among Black Americans, which is younger than the peak observed in white Americans. However, the committee delayed the decision regarding the age recommendation until this week.
Some concerns were raised, such as the potential need for booster shots approximately every 15 years, as well as the possibility of new vaccines under development that might prompt a revision of the recommendations.
“Pneumococcal vaccination has been a very confusing recommendation for many years,” remarked Dr. Jamie Loehr, chair of the committee’s pneumococcal working group, who voted against the proposal.
Expert Opinions on the New Recommendations
To enrich the discussion surrounding this important public health announcement, we spoke with a panel of experts:
- Dr. Emily Richards, an infectious disease specialist.
- Dr. Mark Stevens, a public health policy analyst.
- Dr. Karen Wu, a geriatrician.
Discussion Points:
Dr. Richards: “Lowering the age is a significant step. Pneumococcal disease can be particularly severe in younger older adults, and prevention measures can save lives.”
Dr. Stevens: “While the new guidance is encouraging, we must ensure effective communication reaches the target populations, especially for those hesitant about vaccines.”
Dr. Wu: “As winter approaches, I urge people aged 50 and older to consult their healthcare providers regarding vaccination. Protecting ourselves is crucial as we navigate respiratory illness season.”
Moderating Question: “How can healthcare systems better support vaccination efforts among the elderly?”
Join the conversation below. What are your thoughts on the new age recommendation for pneumococcal vaccination? Share your opinions and questions in the comments!