Which vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 65?

The pneumococcal vaccine is specifically recommended for adults over the age of 65 due to their increased risk of serious infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. This population is particularly vulnerable to pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, which can lead to severe health complications. The pneumococcal vaccine helps to provide robust protection against these serious diseases by stimulating the immune system to recognize and combat pneumococcal bacteria.

The other vaccines listed serve important functions for different populations or age groups. For instance, while the flu vaccine is also important for older adults, its primary focus is on preventing seasonal influenza rather than the specific infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. The HPV vaccine targets prevention of certain cancers caused by human papillomavirus and is generally recommended for younger individuals, while the hepatitis B vaccine is focused on preventing hepatitis B infection, which is more about liver health than respiratory infections in older adults. Thus, the pneumococcal vaccine stands out as a targeted preventive measure for older adults, who are at greater risk for severe illness from pneumonia and related complications.