Ninety percent of flu-related deaths
occur in patients 65 and older.
Fortunately, some flu shots are designed to provide
an increased immune response for those in this age group.
High-dose flu vaccine
There are many types of flu vaccines. One
vaccine meant specifically for persons over 65 is called the high-dose flu vaccine.
This vaccine is a stronger flu shot. It contains four times more antigen to create
better protection. As we age, our immune system weakens and has increased difficulty
fighting off infections. So patients over the age of 65 have the option of
getting the high-dose vaccine. A recent study found that the high-dose vaccine
is 24 percent more effective in preventing the flu compared to the regular
vaccine. This vaccine provides better protection against flu-like illnesses in
patients 65 and older.
Side effects of the high-dose flu vaccine
The common side effects of the high-dose
vaccine are pain, redness or swelling in the arm. The chances of having these
side-effects are slightly higher compared to the regular vaccine. The vaccine is
composed of inactivated flu virus, meaning it cannot make you sick, but symptoms
of muscle aches, mild fever and fatigue have been reported with the high-dose
vaccine.
Flu vaccine with an adjuvant
Unlike the high-dose flu shot, this flu shot
contains the typical amount of antigen found in the regular flu vaccine plus an
adjuvant that helps the vaccine work well with the body and create an improved
immune response.
The most common side effects of a flu shot with an adjuvant include
pain at the injection site, tenderness, muscle aches, headache and fatigue.
Flu vaccines only last a year
Flu viruses change very quickly, and can
be different the next year. CDC recommends everyone over the age of six months getting
the flu vaccine every year.
Especially patients over 65—who are at
higher risk for hospitalization and death because of the flu. Compared to regular
dose, both the high-dose flu vaccine and flu vaccine with an adjuvant have been
shown to be more effective for patients over 65 .
Sources
Fluzone High-Dose vaccine [Prescribing
Information]. Swiftwater, PA: Sanofi Pasteur Inc.; 2015
Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. 2015.
Flu Vaccination. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
(accessed 12/9/15)
Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. 2015.
Fluzone High-Dose Seasonal Influenza Vaccine. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/qa_fluzone.htm.
(accessed 12/9/15)
Diaz-Granados CA, Dunning AJ, Kimmel M, et al.
Efficacy of high-dose versus standard-dose influenza vaccine in older adults. N
Engl J Med 2014;371:635-45
