22 percent of patients at risk are vaccinated against pneumococci. Although the vaccine is known, far too few people would get the sting, according to a study commissioned by the Austrian Association of Vaccine Manufacturers (ÖVIH).
The fifth who say they have been vaccinated in the past five years are people who describe themselves as chronically ill. Another third of those surveyed said they had ever been vaccinated against pneumococci. The vaccine protects against bacterial pneumonia, meningitis or sepsis, also known as blood poisoning.
Higher risk of severe pneumonia
In people with chronic diseases, the risk of a serious course of pneumonia is significantly increased. The same applies to a worsening of their underlying disease, according to a statement from the ÖVIH. Examples of risk groups are people with chronic lung or circulatory diseases such as COPD and asthma, diabetes and people on immunosuppressive therapy, such as after organ transplants. COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a disease in which the lungs are damaged and the airways are chronically narrowed. In Austria, about 800,000 adults suffer from it.
In total, four out of ten Austrians say they have a chronic illness. Although the majority of them are not vaccinated against pneumococci, the vaccine is widely known, according to a broadcast. Regardless of previous illnesses, vaccination is also recommended for all people over the age of 60 and children. In the children’s vaccination program, the vaccine against pneumococci is free.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
