New Brunswickers age 65 and older can now book an appointment through the provincial online appointment scheduler to receive the pneumococcal vaccine free of charge.
The vaccine provides protection against different types of pneumococcal disease, ranging from an ear or sinus infection to pneumonia or a bloodstream infection.
Some of these infections are considered invasive diseases and are potentially fatal. The risk of contracting pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease increases with age.
“With winter came many illnesses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial viruses and COVID-19,” said Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jennifer Russell. We remind New Brunswickers that vaccination remains the best way to protect against serious symptoms of COVID-19, influenza and pneumococcal disease.”
People who have questions about pneumococcal vaccines can ask their health care provider or pharmacist, the government says. – AN