In 2008, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices expanded 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination recommendations to include adults with asthma. The recommendation was made because this population has a demonstrated increased risk of serious pneumococcal infections. But ACIP members also saw an added benefit: The expansion would simplify patient identification and help raise overall vaccination rates, as it can be difficult to differentiate adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic bronchitis (both of which were previously established indications), and asthma.
