Pneumococcal Vaccine in Adult Asthma Patients

Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most frequent source of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia in adults. Respiratory tract infections are the foremost reasons for asthma exacerbations. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consider asthma a clear indication for pneumococcal vaccination. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which adult patients with asthma in Poland adhere to a schedule of recommended pneumococcal vaccinations. In addition, the study attempted to assess the source of the patient knowledge on vaccination and the plausible determents for vaccination. The study was conducted among patients at specialist outpatient clinics in the form of an anonymous survey that contained questions about asthma, vaccines, and the knowledge and motivations. A total of 214 patients (149 females and 65 males) of the mean age of 52 ± 17 years were interviewed. A staggering 93% of patients did not receive pneumococcal vaccination, and only 24% of patients were aware of the need for this vaccine. Age, gender, and education did not affect whether patients chose to receive the vaccine. The most often quoted reason for not receiving the vaccine was lack of information, followed by lack of faith in vaccine efficacy, and the fear of adverse effects. From the standpoint of health hazard stemming from prophylaxis avoidance, it appears paramount to educate asthmatic patients on the benefits of receiving pneumococcal vaccination.