Who is Most at Risk of Pneumococcal Disease?

Factors that contribute to an increased risk are broadly concerning (click on each for more information):

Infants and Young Children: Their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections.

Elderly Adults: Generally defined as those aged 65 and older, their immune systems can be weaker, increasing susceptibility to infections.

For example:

  • An absent or non-functioning spleen
  • Impaired immunity
  • Influenza
  • Pulmonary oedema
  • COPD
  • Chronic cardiac disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Chronic renal failure
  • Chaemotherapy patients
  • HIV/AIDS patients
  • Organ transplant recipients
  • Patients with cochlear implants

These include:

  • Smoking
  • Heavy drinking
  • Living in overcrowded sleeping conditions
  • Overweight and obese individuals

References:

Pneumococcal: the green book, chapter 25