News Release                                                

For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                     January 13, 2009

Pneumococcal Disease

The Grey Bruce Health Unit has observed an increase in pneumococcal pneumonia in Grey Bruce over the past two years. Immunization can prevent these infections.

“This kind of bacterial pneumonia causes more deaths in older adults than any other bacterial, vaccine-preventable disease.” warns Public Health Nurse, Debby Minielly. Although treatable with antibiotics, certain strains of the bacteria have become resistant to commonly used antibiotics. This makes immunization even more important.

Those at high risk for these illnesses include anyone over 65 years old and those with chronic medical conditions such as chronic respiratory, heart, kidney or liver disease, spleen dysfunction, alcoholism, HIV infection, immune suppression, cancer treatment, diabetes and those who smoke. 

Local data from Grey Bruce indicates that in 2004, less than a third of people over age 65 and only about 20% of people with chronic health conditions report receiving the vaccine. The vaccination is free to people in the high risk groups.

The Grey Bruce Health Unit recommends immunization for adults over 65 and anyone with the chronic disease risk factors. If your immunization status is unknown, Public Health recommends that you receive the vaccination, to be sure of protection. 

The vaccine is available through your family doctor or at the Grey Bruce Health Unit clinics.

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For more information:

Debby Minielly

Public Health Nurse

Control of Infectious Diseases Program

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1257