The pneumonia shot, which protects against pneumococcal disease caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, is given with varying frequency depending on age and health status. For infants and young children, the vaccine is given as a series of 4 doses starting at 2 months of age and concluding with a booster between 12 to 15 months. This series is necessary because protection in infants lasts only several months while their immune systems develop.

Adults aged 65 and older typically need one to two pneumococcal shots. One dose often suffices for many, but some may require a second dose one to five years after the first, depending on prior vaccination history and health factors. For adults between 2 and 64 years old with certain immune system disorders or who are smokers, one to three doses may be recommended.

In general, adults who get the pneumonia shot usually only need one dose that can last a lifetime. Exceptions exist for higher-risk individuals and seniors who might need a booster after several years to maintain protection.

Therefore, the frequency of getting a pneumonia shot is:

• Infants and young children: 4 doses in the first 1-2 years of life
• Adults 65 and older: typically 1 dose, possibly a second dose 1 to 5 years later
• Adults 2-64 with health risks: 1 to 3 doses based on individual risk factors

Consulting a healthcare provider is important to determine the exact schedule tailored to personal health status and vaccination history.

This guidance provides a lifetime of protection for most people, with booster doses as needed for certain groups to maintain immunity against pneumonia.