Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?
Yes, many cases can be prevented. You can reduce your risk of getting pneumonia by following these steps.
Get Vaccinated
Immunizations could help prevent many deaths from pneumonia each year. In 2022, more than 40,000 people died from pneumonia in the United States. Vaccines and immunizations are available to help prevent infection by some bacteria and viruses that can cause pneumonia.
Take Additional Steps to Prevent Respiratory Infections
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after coughing or blowing your nose, going to the bathroom, diapering, and before eating or preparing foods.
- Try to avoid people who are sick.
- Take steps to improve indoor air quality.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Don't Smoke and Limit Secondhand Smoke Exposure
Tobacco use damages your lung's ability to fight off infection, and people who smoke have been found to be at higher risk of getting pneumonia. Individuals who smoke are considered one of the high-risk groups that are encouraged to get the vaccine to help prevent pneumococcal pneumonia.
Be Aware of Your General Health
- Because pneumonia often follows respiratory infections, be aware of any symptoms that linger more than a few days.
- Good health habits—a healthy diet, rest, regular exercise, etc.—help keep you from getting sick from viruses and respiratory illnesses. They also help promote faster recovery when you do get a cold, the flu or other respiratory illness.
- Take care to keep well managed existing health conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes and heart disease.
Page last updated: May 5, 2025
