Flu Vaccines For Older Adults: Know The Basics

On the plus side, this can be prevented through vaccination. In fact, vaccinations for seasonal flu are recommended for all adults over the age of 65.

The flu is no joke. In the United States, approximately 24,000 people die from the flu every year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 90 percent of those deaths occur among adults who are 65 or older. An older adult who contracts seasonal influenza becomes a risk for developing flu-related complications like pneumonia that can lead to hospitalization or death.

To combat seasonal influenza, all older adults should receive an influenza vaccine, especially those with asthma, diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. Two options currently exist—a standard influenza vaccine, and the Fluzone High-Dose, which is tailored to older adults. Fluzone High-Dose uses a higher dose to induce a stronger immune response that is intended to better protect older people against seasonal influenza. Fluzone High-Dose does carry some side effects, such as headache, muscle ache and fever, but most people who receive the vaccine do not get them. Flu shots are not recommended for anyone who is allergic to eggs. A nasal spray flu vaccine is on the market, but it isn't for older adults.

Education here is key. Take the time to visit with your loved one's physician to learn more about which vaccine is right for you and your loved one. You can reassure your loved one that the flu shot will not give him or her seasonal influenza.

If you notice you or your loved one coming down with the flu, or flu-like symptoms, have him or her receive medical assessment as soon as possible. Antiviral drugs are available, but they must be administered at the onset of the illness to be affective. Seasonal influenza is different from stomach flu. For example, the influenza virus can have symptoms including, cough, sore throat, fever, body aches, headache, chills, and nasal congestion. The stomach virus shows gastrointestinal distress including, stomach pain and cramping, diarrhea, and possibly a fever. It's important to know that the flu shot does not protect you from a stomach virus; the “stomach flu” is not influenza.

Caregivers and anyone who has regular contact with your loved one should be sure to get vaccinated. Don't forget other common sense preventions including covering your mouth when coughing, washing hands often, and avoiding people who are sick.

Obtaining a flu shot has been easier. Many retail pharmacies offer flu vaccines. The standard flu shot and Fluzone High-Dose are both covered by Medicare. If you received the flu shot last year, you still need to get one this year.