This is inflammation or swelling in your lungs that make it hard for oxygen to reach the blood. You should get the pneumonia vaccine if you:
- Are over age 65.
- Have a chronic illness, such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease.
- Have HIV or AIDS.
- Have a weak immune system from another cause, such as from certain kidney diseases and some cancers, or have had your spleen removed.
- Are taking drugs, such as prednisone that weaken the immune system.