Pneumonia

There is an association between exposure to metal fume and pneumonia.

Pneumococcal vaccine should be considered for those at risk of frequent or continuous occupational exposure to metal fumes. Vaccination may reduce the risk of invasive pneumococcal disease but it should not replace the need to minimise or prevent exposure. 

Welders exposed to metal fumes are at risk of developing metal fume fever, occupational asthma, lobar pneumonia, cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

It is vital to consider control of exposure first, before considering vaccination.

The vaccine does not guarantee protection against pneumonia, it will reduce the risk of developing the condition. It will not prevent occupational asthma, cancer, COPD.

A Single dose of the Vaccine usually gives a good response in most healthy people.