Cochlear Implant Health

Pneumococcal Vaccination is Key to Protecting Cochlear Implant Patients

Cochlear implants bring sound to thousands of people with hearing loss worldwide. People with cochlear implants are at increased risk for pneumococcal meningitis. Despite CDC recommendations that all cochlear implant patients receive pneumococcal vaccination, many patients remain unvaccinated. The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), in coordination with the CDC and FDA, has begun a campaign to help raise awareness about the importance of pneumococcal vaccinations for all cochlear implant patients.  Pneumococcal vaccination, the “Pneumo Shot”, is recommended by CDC for all patients who have, or will receive cochlear implants.

Patient Education Materials - NEW!

• Pneumococcal Vaccination for Cochlear Implant Patients - Flyer
• Folleto acerca de la aplicación de la vacuna neumocócica para pacientes con implante coclear
• Pneumococcal Vaccination for Cochlear Implant Patients - Poster
• Pneumococcal Vaccination Record Stickers (print with Avery 5164 labels)
  

Fact Sheets

• Link to Current Recommended Vaccine Schedule
• CDC 2009 Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
• What Parents Should Know
• Cochlear Implants Patient Information

Other Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration Public Health Notification
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Cochlear Implant Health Professionals - Click here to obtain additional supplies of patient education materials.