The frequency of pneumonia shots depends on age, health status, and vaccine type:
- Children younger than 2 years receive a series of 4 doses at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and a booster at 12 to 15 months.
- Adults 65 years and older typically need one or two doses, which generally last for life. Some may need a second dose 1 to 5 years later depending on the vaccine and health conditions.
- Adults between 2 and 64 with certain health risks or who smoke may need 1 to 3 doses.
- For adults 50 years and older, vaccination is recommended with PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21; additional PPSV23 may be given one year later depending on vaccine type.
Most adults only need one dose for long-term protection, but providers tailor the schedule based on individual health and risk factors. In infants, multiple doses are needed to build ongoing immunity.
