Most People Don’t Think About Pneumonia During Respiratory Season… 

but they should. It’s very preventable — and still a major threat, especially for older adults. 

Greensboro- Today is World Pneumonia Awareness Day. Last year, more than 11,600 people were treated with pneumonia across Cone Health. The severity of pneumonia can be minimized through vaccination and healthy habits. 

 Why it matters 

Pneumonia is serious. It can lead to long stays in the hospital and even death — especially in people with weakened immune systems. 

The kicker: It’s the #1 vaccine-preventable diagnosis in adults. 

 What causes it? 

Pneumonia isn’t one bug — it’s caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. “Pneumonia shots” like Prevnar 13/20 or Pneumovax only protect against pneumococcal pneumonia — not all types. 

These diseases can also lead to pneumonia—and we have vaccines for them. 

• Influenza 
• COVID-19 
• Pneumococcal bacteria 
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)  

How can you protect yourself?  

• Talk to your provider 
• Get your recommended vaccines (Available at Cone Health Community Pharmacies and many other pharmacies.) 

Support your immune system: 

• Don’t smoke  
• Limit alcohol  
• Stay hydrated  
• Get rest  
• Exercise 
• Manage stress   

As we age: Our immune response weakens — making prevention even more critical.  

Pneumonia is preventable. Act now.