One of the most effective ways to prevent transmission of the viruses and bacteria that can cause pneumonia is by practicing good hygiene. This includes washing hands after coughing or sneezing, or after coming into contact with a person with an infection. It is also important to cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. The spread of a virus can also be prevented by not sharing items such as towels, eating utensils, bottles or beverage containers with others. Tissues should be promptly disposed of after use, and hands should be washed after handling used tissues.

There are pneumonia vaccines available to people in high risk groups such as children, older adults and people with HIV, AIDS or other conditions that may affect the immune system. These include:

• Pneumococcal vaccine. This protects against the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, which accounts for many cases of pneumonia in the United States. Although this type of pneumonia is bacterial and can be treated with antibiotics, it is developing antibiotic resistance because it is so common. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people in the following groups receive the pneumococcal vaccine:
  
  
• People over 65.
  
  
• Children over 2 years old who are at a high risk for pneumonia.
  
  
• People with long-term serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, sickle cell anemia, alcoholism, asthma or diabetes.
  
  
• People with HIV, AIDS or other conditions that impairs the immune system.

For children under 2 years old, there is a modified version of the pneumococcal vaccine available called the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

• Influenza (flu) vaccine. Because many strains of pneumonia are caused by a flu virus, having a flu shot every year can reduce the chances of contracting pneumonia. The flu shot must be given yearly because the flu virus constantly develops new strains. It is recommended for the following people:
  
  
• Infants between 6 months and 2 years old
  
  
• Adults older than 50
  
  
• People in high risk groups

There are no vaccines available that can protect against all types of pneumonia. Research has shown that those who practice prevention techniques, including receiving a flu shot, are less likely to contract pneumonia and may have shorter and milder bouts of pneumonia if it does occur. People with HIV, AIDS or those in other high-risk groups are encouraged to talk with their physician about additional ways to prevent pneumonia.

The following steps can also be taken to reduce the risk of pneumonia:

• Stop smoking.
  
  
• Avoid contact with anyone who has a viral or bacterial infection, especially the flu.
  
  
• Vaccinate children against common childhood illnesses which may cause pneumonia such as measles and chickenpox.