American Lung Association urges vaccinations for adults with lung disease

The American Lung Association has partnered with Pfizer to encourage adults with lung disease to discuss receiving vaccinations for preventable diseases with their health care provider.

“The risk of contracting potentially life-threatening respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia increases sharply among those 65 years or older, including adults with chronic lung disease such as asthma and COPD and those adults who smoke,” according to an ALA press release.

Norman Edelman

“One of the best things people with lung disease can do to take charge of their health is to talk to their health care provider about getting vaccinated,” Norman Edelman, MD, senior medical adviser, American Lung Association, said in the release. “Influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia can have a devastating impact on the lives of those whose lungs are already compromised by asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other chronic respiratory conditions. Vaccines are vital to protecting lung health.”

The CDC reported that collectively influenza and pneumonia, including pneumococcal pneumonia, were the ninth-leading cause of mortality in the US in 2010. It recommends vaccinations for all adults.

“We’re committed to increasing immunization rates to reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable disease and encourage anyone 65 years and older to make it a priority to confirm their vaccination needs with their health care provider,” Gregg Sylvester, MD, vice president, Americas Medical & Scientific Affairs, Pfizer Vaccines, said in the release.