for Veterans and the Public

Bacterial pneumonia (often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae) can affect people whose immune systems are not weakened by HIV. Persons infected with HIV, however, are much more likely than people who are HIV negative to develop bacterial pneumonia. Fortunately, these pneumonias can be treated with available antibiotics. HIV-infected persons should receive a vaccine called the Pneumovax, to help prevent pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.