Hum Vaccin Immunother

Pneumococcal vaccines reduce hospitalizations, death in older adults

October 7, 2025

Pneumococcal vaccination is effective in reducing hospitalization and mortality among older adults, particularly those with chronic conditions and advanced age. These findings support continued vaccination efforts.

Study details: This systematic review and meta-analysis included 35 studies (30 cohort, 3 randomized trials, 2 case-control) published through March 2025, encompassing 1.65 million vaccinated and 2.62 million unvaccinated older individuals. Both pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPV) and conjugate (PCV-13) vaccines were evaluated, with subgroup analyses by age and comorbidity status.

Results: Pneumonia-related hospitalization was significantly reduced in groups receiving mixed PPV and PCV-13, especially among those aged >75 and with chronic conditions. All-cause hospitalization decreased (odds ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.91-0.97), with the greatest effect in PPV-23 recipients, Asian populations, and those with comorbidities. Pneumonia mortality declined across age groups >60, and all-cause mortality was lower in those aged 60 to 75. No significant reduction was observed in emergency visit rates. High heterogeneity was noted across studies.

Source:

Bulkhi A, et al. (2025, December). Hum Vaccin Immonother. Effectiveness of pneumococcal vaccination in reducing hospitalization and mortality among the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40988121/