- The high dose vaccine is the only flu shot specifically formulated for people over 65.
- Studies have shown that the traditional, seasonal flu shot does not prevent the flu as well in senior populations as it does in younger people.
- Almost 90% of flu-related deaths in the U.S. occur in people over age 65.
- According the CDC, the best prevention for Influenza each season is receiving a seasonal flu shot.
Flu season is upon us again, and it is time to protect your health and the health of those you love. You know a seasonal flu shot is the best means of preventing the flu each flu season, but for senior populations this shot may not provide adequate protection.
The high dose vaccine is the only flu shot specifically formulated for people over 65. Indeed, studies have shown that the traditional, seasonal flu shot does not prevent the flu as well in senior populations as it does in younger people. As the body ages, the immune system gets weaker. This means the body’s ability to bounce back from disease decreases with age as well. A weakened immune system can have very serious complications during flu season.
Seniors are more likely than their younger counterparts to have existing health problems, and the flu is more likely to cause serious complications, hospitalization, or even death when someone is already unwell.
Thousands of people (between 3,000 to 49,000 in particularly bad years) die from the flu each season in the US alone. Almost 90% of these deaths occur in people over age 65.
For these reasons, it is crucial that seniors take extra care of their health. After consulting with a healthcare professional to determine if this vaccine is appropriate given specific health issues or allergies, seniors should consider the only flu vaccine made specifically for them.
Remember, even a mild case of the flu results in ample unpleasantness: coughing, sore throat, fever, chills, headache and more. However, it is possible to prevent all of these nasty symptoms and more. According the CDC, the best means of preventing the flu each season is with a seasonal flu shot.
I recently went to a health fair that had the flu shot but did not have one for
those over 65. Do more health professionals need to be made aware of this?
Great question, Virginia! Many health professionals know of the high dose and other vaccines, but don’t always keep it in-stock. Passport Health is one of a many clinics that keep it in-stock at all times.
I am employed @ a VA Medical Center. Asked about this new high-dose flu shot which I would have preferred since I am 65. Well, even the VA facility did not have it 🙁