Pulmonologist on Staff at Silver Cross Says a Pneumonia Vaccination Is Good for Life … Literally

Many questions have followed the death of NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, attributed in part to bacterial pneumonia ultimately causing his organs to shut down. 

But there is no question that getting the pneumonia vaccine – now often needed only one time – can prevent bacterial pneumonia, or at the very least, keep it from getting to a critical stage, according to Dr. Kristopher McDonough, a critical care Pulmonologist on the medical staff at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox. 

Dr. McDonough suspects Busch’s pneumonia may have been the result of another previous health issue, just as many cases he sees follow respiratory illnesses, such as flu. 

“We see a lot of cases of bacterial pneumonia, especially during the fall and winter when respiratory illnesses are at their peak,” said Dr. McDonough. “But they can occur any time during the year.” 

That’s especially true for people who have pre-existing conditions, he said, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, diabetes, kidney disease or even medications that can compromise a person’s immune responses, like those for rheumatoid arthritis. 

For others, Dr. McDonough added, the general rule is a pneumonia shot – again, good for life, literally – is warranted after age 50. And definitely after age 65. 

“And again, earlier for those who have pre-existing conditions,” Dr. McDonough said. “If you have symptoms, the more quickly you get antibiotics, the better chances for a positive outcome. Even if it turns into sepsis – spreading to other organs in the body – 80 percent of people who get immediate care in the ICU end up walking out of the hospital. But don’t let it get to that point.” 

While the pneumonia vaccination usually is good for life (check with your provider), Dr. McDonough stressed that getting the annual flu shot is critical to preventing the chance of developing bacterial pneumonia. 

“Medicare and other insurance cover these vaccines, even if you get them at a pharmacy instead of a doctor’s office,” he added. “And don’t try to just ‘shake it off,’ thinking it will clear up on its own. Look what happened to Kyle Busch, a 41-year-old man. Take the symptoms seriously. The sooner you are treated, the better the chances for a complete recovery.” 

About Lung Care at Silver Cross

The Midwest Institute for Lung at Silver Cross Hospital is committed to helping our community breathe easier. Our program combines highly skilled clinicians, the latest technology and superior patient care to treat a wide array of lung disorders. 

With the exception of lung transplant, the program manages every lung disorder locally, including COPD, asthma, lung cancer, emphysema, sarcoidosis and many other conditions.

In 2025, U.S. News & World Report, named Silver Cross as a high-performing hospital for the treatment of COPD. 

For a referral to a physician on Silver Cross Hospital’s medical staff, or for more information about lung care services at the Midwest Institute for Lung at Silver Cross Hospital, visit silvercross.org