Pneumonia and the body's response p4

Prevention of pneumonia is desired whenever possible. The easiest way to prevent pneumonia and or severe complications from it is by being vaccinated. The National Heart and Lung and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) Disease and Conditions Index (2009) have several guidelines regarding these vaccinations. The Pneumococcal Pneumonia vaccine (PCV) is recommended for people age sixty-five and older and it is good for at least five years. It is also recommended for people who have chronic disease or a weakened immune system, Alaskan natives, some American Indian populations, and children under age two. Children age two to five who suffer from chronic illness, attend daycare, are of African American, Alaskan Native, or American Indian decent should also be vaccinated. Since pneumonia is a common complication of influenza, the NHLBI advises people who are at risk to get the influenza vaccination each year. The HIB vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenza type B, a bacteria that can cause pneumonia and meningitis in children. It is given to all infants in the United States who are younger that five years old. Since respiratory infections are usually airborne, it is difficult to avoid being exposed to microbes that cause pneumonia. There are several precautions the general public can take to reduce these risks such as good hand washing, don’t smoke or use excessive amounts of alcohol, avoid contact with sick animals and birds, keep immune system healthy by exercising, get enough rest, and eat right. Good oral hygiene is advised as well since periodontitis is a predisposing factor of pneumonia (Stephen, 2008).