Which of the following is a common use for pneumococcal vaccines?

Pneumococcal vaccines are specifically designed to prevent infections caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia. By receiving the vaccine, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing pneumonia and other serious infections such as meningitis and bloodstream infections. This vaccination is particularly important for high-risk populations, including young children, the elderly, and those with certain health conditions that compromise the immune system.

The other options do not align with the intended use of pneumococcal vaccines. For instance, while flu vaccines are aimed at preventing influenza, they do not provide protection against bacterial pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria. Treatment of asthma and chronic pain relief involve different therapeutic approaches and medications altogether. Thus, the prevention of bacterial pneumonia is the primary relevance of pneumococcal vaccines.