Persons who have had their spleen removed, even though currently in good health, should also request the vaccine if they have not already received it.

"Health officials are concerned that the pneumococcal vaccine is greatly underutilized," said Dr. Harold N. Adel, Commissioner of Health for Westchester County. "This means that most senior citizens are unnecessarily exposed to the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia, which can result in death. This is a good time to remind your favorite senior citizens to get their pneumococcal vaccine," he added.

"Pneumococcal disease is the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia and accounts for more deaths in the U.S. than any other vaccine preventable disease. Pneumococcal disease is spread by airborne or direct exposure to respiratory droplets of an infected person," continued Dr. Adel. "Pneumococcal infection can lead to pneumonia, meningitis and/or a blood stream infection called pneumococcal bacteremia. Antibiotic resistant strains are becoming more common, making it more important than ever to prevent this infection by vaccination," he said.

Now is a good time to be immunized against pneumococcal disease, because pneumococcal infections occur most often during the winter and early spring, but vaccination at any time of year is effective. Side effects of the vaccine (low fever and local soreness) are minor and subside quickly. Residents can even receive the pneumococcal vaccine at the same time as their "flu shot" without increasing the side effects.

Pneumococcal vaccines are available to residents 65 years of age or older, or to anyone with an underlying medical condition for whom the vaccine is recommended through County sponsored influenza clinics. Influenza clinics are held at 44 sites throughout the County from September 25 through November 10. Pneumococcal vaccines are covered in full by Medicare; otherwise there is a $20.00 fee. Flu shots are also covered in full by Medicare; otherwise there is a $10.00 fee.