The Brownwood/Brown County Health Department has a limited supply of the PPSV23 (pneumococcal) vaccine available in their state funded vaccine supply. This vaccine is commonly referred to as the “pneumonia shot.”

The PPSV23 vaccine is recommended for adults. The CDC recommends one PPSV23 before the age of 65, and one vaccine after the age of 65. Certain people are at increased risk of contracting pneumonia, such as people with chronic heart conditions, chronic lung conditions, diabetes, chronic liver disease, or people who are immunocompromised. People who have questions about whether they are candidates for the PPSV23 should discuss this with their primary care physician.

The state funded vaccines, referred to as “adult safety net vaccines”, are available to adults with no insurance. Medicare and Medicaid are both considered insurance, therefore people who have Medicare or Medicaid are not eligible for the state funded vaccines. There is no charge for the vaccine.

The health department’s supply of state funded PPSV23 will be available through August 14 to qualifying individuals. During this time, the health department will be waiving the $15.00 administration charge for giving the vaccine. Any qualifying individuals who receive the vaccine by August 14 will not be charged an administration fee.

For questions about the vaccine or whether a person qualifies for the vaccine, please contact the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department at 325-646-0554.