Senior flu shots are more potent influenza vaccines designed for persons 65 years and older.
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What Is a Senior Flu Shot?
The CDC recommends an annualflu vaccinefor everyone 6 months and older (with a few, rare exceptions).
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The immune system gets progressively weaker with aging, a process called immunosenescence.
Research shows that around and after age 65, the immune system begins to weaken.
Administering a higher-dose vaccine compensates for a weaker immune system, resulting in a more typical immune response.
They help boost immunity and prevent complications from influenza.
Antibodies are proteins that recognize and bind to specific antigens and neutralize pathogens.
High-dose vaccines promote a stronger immune response because they have more antigens than standard flu vaccines.
Studies show high-dose vaccines offer older adults 24% more protection against the flu than the standard vaccine.
Which Flu Shot Is Best for Seniors?
Known as senior flu shots, the CDC gives no preference to one over another.
About half of flu-related hospitalizations and up to 85% of flu-related deaths originate from this age group.
Research shows older adults often have weaker immune responses to the flu vaccine than younger people.
Compared to standard vaccines, senior flu shots reduce flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.
Pneumonia and flu symptoms can overlap, Always inform your healthcare provider about any unusual or worsening symptoms.
What Flu Vaccines Should Seniors Avoid?
Older adults should not be given Flumist, thenasal spray vaccine.
When Should Older Adults Get a Flu Shot?
The best time for older adults to get the flu shot is late September through the end of October.
People 65 years of age and older are advised against getting the flu shot too early in the season.
The vaccine’s protection fades faster in this population.
An August vaccination could lose effectiveness before the end of flu season, typically at the end of May.
However, a late flu shot is better than none at all.
What Are the Side Effects?
Consult your healthcare provider to determine which flu vaccine is best for you.
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