To avoid serious flu complications, it is important for older adults to get flu shots. People eligible for Medicare can get a flu shot for free if the doctor or healthcare professional giving the shot accepts Medicare.
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause a variety of symptoms.
The flu can strike any time of the year, although outbreaks tend to peak in fall and winter. Some people who get the flu recover in about
However, the flu can cause serious complications in older adults, so it’s important for them to get an annual flu shot.
Flu vaccines are typically administered via injection, but other forms exist. Some of the more
- high dose flu shot
- adjuvanted flu shot
- intradermal flu shot
- nasal spray vaccine
It’s important to understand that flu shots aren’t one-size-fits-all, and the different types can be more effective for specific age groups.
If you’re an older adult and considering getting a flu shot this season, chances are your doctor will recommend a flu shot designed specifically for people ages 65 and older, such as a high dose trivalent vaccine.
One type of high dose trivalent flu vaccine for older adults is Fluzone. It protects against
The flu vaccine works by stimulating the production of antibodies in your body that can protect against the flu virus. Antigens are the components that stimulate the production of these antibodies.
A high dose vaccine is designed to strengthen the immune system response in older adults, lowering the risk of infection.
A
Another flu vaccine is FLUAD, a standard-dose trivalent shot made with adjuvant.
If you’re getting the flu vaccine, your doctor can point you to the one that should work best for you.
Are flu vaccines safe?
For the most part, the flu vaccine is safe. However,
- an allergy, such as to gelatin or antibiotics
- a previous bad reaction to the vaccine or its ingredients
- a fever (wait until it’s better before receiving the flu shot)
It’s not unusual to experience mild flu-like symptoms after a vaccination, but you
Other common side effects of the vaccine include soreness and discoloration at the injection site.
Flu shot costs vary depending on where you go and whether you have insurance. For older adults, flu shots are typically free of charge through Medicare if the doctor or healthcare professional accepts Medicare.
Without insurance, typical prices for older adult flu vaccines range between
Some pharmacies and hospitals in your community may provide vaccinations. You can also research flu clinics at community centers or senior centers.
When should I get a flu shot?
On average, it can take up to 2 weeks for your body to produce antibodies to protect against the flu.
For most people, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting a flu shot by the
The flu shot is especially important for older adults because the immune system can weaken as we age.
When the immune system is weak, it becomes harder for the body to fight infections. Likewise, a weaker immune system can lead to flu-related complications.
Secondary infections that can develop with the flu include:
- ear infections
- sinus infections
- bronchitis
- pneumonia
Even if you have received a flu shot, you may still get the flu. However, your symptoms should be far less severe than if you were unvaccinated.
Protecting yourself from the flu is increasingly important, and you can ask your doctor about getting a high dose flu vaccination.
Ideally, you should get a vaccine in early fall, and everyone should aim to be vaccinated by the end of October.
Keep in mind that flu strains vary from year to year, so be prepared to update your vaccination next flu season.