September marks National Immunization Awareness Month, a great time to highlight how vaccines protect all of us, especially those with chronic respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other lung diseases.

At Respire Homecare, we believe that protecting your lungs means protecting your life. And that starts with prevention.

Need help staying on top of your health? Respire Homecare is here to support you with resources, caregiver guidance, and tools to help you breathe easier every day.

Why Vaccines Are So Important for People with Lung Conditions

If you have a chronic lung condition, your body already works harder to breathe. Catching an illness like the flu, COVID-19, or RSV can make symptoms worse, fast. These infections can lead to hospital stays, long-term complications, or even death.

Vaccines teach your immune system how to recognize and fight off these viruses before they cause major problems. They don’t just protect you; they help protect everyone around you, too.

5 Key Vaccines for People with COPD, Asthma, or Other Lung Conditions

Let’s break down which vaccines are most important and why.

1. Flu Shot (Influenza Vaccine)

The flu is especially dangerous for people with COPD or asthma. It can cause severe flare-ups and lung infections.

Recommended:

  • Everyone 6 months and older
  • Adults 65+ should ask for the high-dose or adjuvanted version for extra protection

2. Pneumonia Vaccine (Pneumococcal Vaccine)

Pneumonia hits hard in people with weakened lungs or immune systems.

Recommended:

  • Adults 50+ should receive PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21
  • Some people may also need a PPSV23 booster

3. COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 increases the risk of serious complications for people with lung conditions. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Recommended:

  • Stay up to date with current guidelines
  • Adults 65+ and those who are immunocompromised may need additional doses

4. RSV Vaccine (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV can feel like a cold but cause major issues for older adults and people with COPD or asthma. RSV immunization has been shown to reduce hospitalizations by 75% in adults 60+.

Recommended:

  • Adults 60+ should ask their doctor if RSV vaccination is right for them

5. Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Whooping cough can trigger serious symptoms in people with lung conditions. Tdap vaccination helps prevent this and other serious infections.

Recommended:

  • Adults should get a Tdap booster once, then a Td shot every 10 years

Why Seniors Need Extra Protection

As we age, our immune systems slow down. This means it’s harder to fight off infections and we may not respond as strongly to vaccines. But that’s also why vaccines matter even more. Staying on top of your immunizations helps maintain your independence and reduce hospital visits.

How Respire Homecare Can Help

At Respire, we’re your partner in health. Our team supports patients and caregivers through:

  • Respiratory education and home safety tips
  • Ongoing equipment support for oxygen, nebulizers, and CPAP
  • Care coordination with your provider to help manage chronic conditions

Have questions about your respiratory health plan? We’re just a phone call away.

Contact Respire Homecare Today

This Month, Take Action:

  • Schedule your annual flu shot
  • Talk to your doctor about pneumonia, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines
  • Review your vaccine history and ask if you’re due for a Tdap booster
  • Encourage loved ones to get vaccinated, too

A simple shot can prevent serious illness. Protect your lungs. Protect your life.