Seasonal Flu + Senior Strength Vaccine UPDATED 9/26/11

• This blogpost is dedicated to my uncle Keith, who died on March 5, 2011, from complications of the flu.



• According to the CDC, this has been the worst flu [influenza] season in Louisiana and Mississippi. These states reported the highest rates of flu during early 2011.



• While the CDC mandates that all states report flu deaths among children, there is no requirement for reporting adult and older adult flu deaths. The CDC "estimates" elderly flu deaths from well-established scientific methods.

• Deaths from flu and flu complications last year were estimated at 36k. Of those, it is estimated that 90% or 32k were older adults. Complications of the flu include dehydration and pneumonia. Frail elderly are the most vulnerable to death from flu.



• The flu vaccine is 65% effective as a flu preventive in older adults, who have weaker immune systems. However, the benefits are enormous! The flu vaccine reduces pneumonia by 60%, reduces hospitalisation by 50%, and reduces DEATH by 75-80%.

More later! AgeDoc

Added 9/26/11:

A "senior strength" flu vaccine is available! Studies show that the traditional flu shot may not prevent the flu as well in older adults. Why? The immune system is weaker and they are at greater risk for complications.

Fluzone High Dose vaccine is a flu shot made specifically for older adults AND IT DOES NOT COST MORE than the traditional vaccine.

When my husband asked for his high dose flu vaccine at CVS in Huntsville, he was told it was only for seniors with multiple chronic conditions. However, it is available at Fred's in Rogersville for ALL older adults. Be persistent! If you are over age 65, call around and find the Fluzone High Dose influenza virus vaccine. It could be a matter of life and death.