Primary prevention

Pneumonia prevention is focused on the pathogens that cause disease, through vaccination and by managing the risks associated with disease development.

The main means of prevention are pneumococcal and influenza vaccination of at-risk people and smoking cessation.[1] [ Cochrane Clinical Answers logo ] ​​

In terms of vaccination, the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) recommends:[60]

  • Pneumococcal vaccination

    • Adults aged 65 or over and at-risk groups: a single dose of 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23). At-risk groups are those with:[60]

      • Asplenia or dysfunction of the spleen

      • Chronic respiratory, heart, liver disease, or neurological conditions

      • Stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease (including haemodialysis)

      • Diabetes

      • Immunosuppression due to disease or treatment

      • Cochlear implants

      • Complement disorders.

    • At-risk patients should be offered pneumococcal immunisation at every opportunity (for example, when immunising against influenza or at routine consultations), and especially at discharge from hospital.

  • Influenza vaccination

    • Adults aged 65 or over, and at-risk groups: annual influenza vaccine provided they do not have a contraindication. At risk groups are pregnant women and those with:[60]

      • Asplenia or dysfunction of the spleen

      • Chronic respiratory, heart, liver, or neurological disease

      • Stage 3, 4, or 5 chronic kidney disease (including haemodialysis)

      • Diabetes

      • Immunosuppression due to disease or treatment

      • Complement disorders.

Further information on vaccines, vaccination procedures, special patient populations, and current vaccination schedules in the UK can be found in the latest UK Health and Security Agency vaccination schedule. UKHSA complete routine immunisation schedule. Opens in new window Vaccination schedules vary by location; consult local guidance for recommendations.

Smoking cessation is important for all patients, but particularly for those at risk of pneumonia and influenza. Offer advice according to national smoking cessation guidelines.[1] NICE: stop smoking interventions and services Opens in new window

  • Cigarette smoking, both active and passive, is a recognised independent risk factor for CAP.[1]

There is insufficient evidence to determine the effect of vitamin C or vitamin D supplementation in the prevention (or treatment) of pneumonia.[61][62]

Secondary prevention

For all patients with CAP who smoke, offer advice according to national smoking cessation guidelines. NICE: stop smoking interventions and services Opens in new window Explain to patients how smoking impairs natural mechanisms for eliminating pathogens and debris.[1]

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