Pneumovax, a new pneumonia vaccine, will be available to area residents at three Harvard teaching hospitals for $5 until October 18, James P. King, spokesman for the Affiliated Hospitals Center, said yesterday.

After that date, the vaccines will be more expensive, King added. He did not specify how much the cost would increase.

Boston Hospital for Women, Peter Bent Brigham Hospital and Robert B. Brigham Hospital will be providing the shots.

Senior Citizens

"The vaccine program is especially aimed at people over 50 and people with chronic conditions," said King. He added that the vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women.

King said the hospitals had scheduled vaccination times for those who are not regular patients of the three hospitals. A complete list of vaccination times is available by calling the center at 732-5941.