Cases rising of pneumococcal disease in Thunder Bay: health unit
The number of cases of invasive pneumococcal disease in Thunder Bay is on the rise.
There are 95 cases so far this year, an increase compared to 77 cases in 2024, and 63 cases in 2023, according to a news release.
That is why the Thunder Bay District Health Unit is encouraging people 50 years of age and older to make sure their vaccines are up to date.
Non-invasive pneumococcal disease typically affects the ears, sinuses or throat. But invasive pneumococcal disease affects the blood, lungs and other major organs.
Pneumococcal disease is the name for any infection caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. That includes pneumococcal pneumonia. But it is not the only bacteria that causes pneumonia.
They say most cases (55 per cent) of the invasive bacteria occur in people 50 and up, and 68 per cent of people infected end up in the hospital.
The vaccine is commonly called the pneumonia shot, and adults usually get it once.
You could be eligible for the vaccine if:
- you are 65 years old and have not been vaccinated yet
- you have a chronic disease, certain medical conditions, including a weakened immune system
If you have already had the vaccine, you could be eligible for a second dose if you are 65 years old and have a chronic disease or underlying medical condition.
Pharmacies are not offering the vaccine right now. But you can get it through your primary care provider or by booking an appointment to visit the health unit’s routine immunization clinic at their main office in Thunder Bay at this link.
