Pneumonia BREAKTHROUGH: Vaccine could prevent serious and potentially FATAL lung infection
PNEUMONIA is a serious lung infection that makes it difficult for patients to breathe - and is one of the most common causes of death as a result of infection in the UK.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is swelling, or inflammation of the tissue in the lungs.
Symptoms of the condition can develop suddenly, with people displaying a cough, difficulty breathing, fever and chest pain.
The condition is more common in people over the age of 50 - figures reveal 40 per cent more people in their 50s who get pneumonia compared to those in their 40s.
A pneumonia vaccination service for adults over 50 has been launched by Boots UK so people can pay to protect themselves.
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The vaccination encourages the body to produce antibodies to help protect you from pneumococcal infection.
Pneumonia is one of the most common causes of death due to infection in the UK, with the nation having one of the highest mortality rates from pneumonia in Europe.
Angela Chalmers, Boots pharmacist, said: “Many people don’t realise that anyone can catch pneumonia, not just those deemed at ‘high risk’.
“Additionally, flu can increase chances of catching pneumonia.
In the UK, pneumonia affects around 8 in 1,000 adults each year. It's more widespread in autumn and winter.
“Specially trained pharmacists in Boots stores offering this service are able to provide the pneumonia vaccination service and flu vaccination service and can also offer additional advice on staying well this winter.”
With the risk of catching pneumonia increasing with age, particularly after 50, the new pilot service that launched in December complements the pneumonia vaccination currently available on the NHS to those 65 and over or with a long-term health condition.
Pneumonia affects around 1 in 125 UK adults each year, in particular during autumn and winter.
The Boots UK Pneumonia Vaccination Service provides those aged 50 and over who are not eligible for an NHS vaccination, an option to better protect their health.
The vaccination encourages the body to produce antibodies to protect people from pneumococcal infection.
NHS Choices said: “In the UK, pneumonia affects around 8 in 1,000 adults each year. It's more widespread in autumn and winter.
"Pneumonia can affect people of any age, but it's more common – and can be more serious – in certain groups of people, such as the very young or the elderly."
This means people are less likely to become ill if you come into contact with the bacteria that cause pneumonia.
The new service is being piloted in 51 Boots UK stores across the nation from 23 January 2017 and costs £70. One vaccination is required.
To book your pneumonia vaccination appointment at Boots go instore or online at boots.com/pneumonia.
