Flu Vaccine for Older Adults
The flu, or influenza, is a virus that can cause fever, chills, sore throat, stuffy nose, headache, and muscle aches. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), flu is a mild illness for some people. However, for others, including older adults with chronic (long-lasting) health conditions, it can be very serious. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 50-70% of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people 65 and older.
Protect yourself from the flu
There are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself from the flu, as my colleague Dr. Heather Ogando discusses in her blog post.
One of the proven effective ways to minimize your chances of getting the flu is to get a flu vaccine. You are less likely to become seriously ill or hospitalized from flu and flu-related complications if you get the vaccine. A flu vaccine is especially important in older adults who have heart disease, diabetes, or other health conditions.
According to the CDC, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended that all 2024-2025 flu vaccines be trivalent, which means they protect against three different flu viruses. Below are two of the many types of flu vaccines available.
Fluad Trivalent
This vaccine is approved for use among people 65 and older. It is a standard-dose flu shot with an ingredient added to help stimulate the immune system.
Afluria Trivalent
A 0.5 mL dose of this vaccine is approved for people 3 years and older.
You can ideally get flu vaccines starting in October of each year. But it's not too late to get one from your doctor as the height of the flu season is usually in December or January. Participants of CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) who have not yet had their flu shot can contact their care team by calling 1-833-CL-CARES (1-833-252-2737) (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.
CenterLight is committed to providing accurate health-related information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with their doctor regarding their care. If you would like to learn more about CenterLight, please call: 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM - 8PM, Monday - Friday. Representatives or message service also available on weekends.
This blog post was written by Shu Jing, PharmD, MS, Senior Director of Pharmacy Services at CenterLight Healthcare.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Institutes of Health
US will Transition to Trivalent Flu Vaccines for 2024-2025
H3329 FluShotBlog_no PO info Updated 11252024