Influenza Vaccination

Because of age-related changes in their immune systems, people 65 years and older may not respond as well to vaccination as younger people. Although immune responses may be lower in older people, studies have found that flu vaccine has been effective in reducing the risk of doctor visits and hospitalizations due to the flu. In addition, high dose vaccines and an adjuvanted flu vaccine are available; adjuvanted flu vaccine includes an additive that provide a higher immune response. These vaccines have been shown to more effective in older adults in producing a stronger immune response and reducing illness compared to the standard flu vaccine shot. Your doctor or pharmacist will recommend which flu vaccine is best for you.

Why are flu shots needed every year?

If you’re concerned about how to prevent catching the flu from someone, getting a flu vaccine is your best bet. CDC recommends that almost everyone 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine every year, ideally by the end of October. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue throughout flu season, even into January or later.

Flu vaccines are updated each season to keep up with changing viruses. Also, immunity against the flu virus decreases over a year so annual vaccination is needed to make sure everyone has the best possible protection against flu. Because immunity may decrease more quickly in older people, it is especially important that older adults are not vaccinated too early like in July or August.

As of 2022, federal health officials recommend specific flu vaccines for people age 65 and older. Studies have shown it triggers a better immune response in older adults than the traditional flu vaccine.3,4 If you are 65 or older, ask for one of these vaccines when you are getting your flu shot from your doctor, pharmacists, or a vaccine clinic. But if one of these vaccines is not available or will not be available soon, a traditional flu shot is recommended.