Marci’s Mailbox: How Can I Protect Myself From Pneumonia?

The following appeared in the April 21, 2003 issue of Dear Marci, a FREE online newsletter from The Medicare Rights Center.

Q: A friend of mine had pneumonia and almost died.  Is there any way I can protect myself against this infection? — Stanley (Newark, NJ)

A: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can lead to serious health problems and even death.  There is a vaccine against one common type of pneumonia caused by bacteria, called "pneumococcal" pneumonia.  Most people only need one pneumonia vaccine in their lifetime.  If you are 65 or older and have a chronic lung condition such as emphysema or asthma, or your immune system is compromised, Medicare will cover the full cost of your pneumonia vaccine even if you have not met your Part B deductible.  If you are in a Medicare private plan (HMO or PPO) there may be a copay for this service.

Medicare also covers the flu shot for all people with Medicare.  The flu is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the influenza virus.  Most people who get the flu recover completely in one to two weeks, but some develop serious and potentially life-threatening complications, such as pneumonia. The flu shot is strongly recommended for people at risk for complications, which includes people over 50, people with chronic health problems, and people who have a weakened immune system.  You should not get a flu shot if you are allergic to eggs or any component of the vaccine.  The optimal time to get the flu shot is before the flu season, which usually runs from November to April.

If your doctor accepts assignment, Medicare will cover the full cost of a flu shot every flu season, even if you have not yet met the Part B deductible. If you are in a private Medicare plan (HMO or PPO) there may be a copay.

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The Medicare Rights Center (MRC) is a national, not-for-profit consumer service organization working to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities receive high-quality, affordable health care.  For more information about MRC visit the web site: www.medicarerights.org or write to: The Medicare Rights Center, 1460 Broadway, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10036.

October 2003

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