It's no secret that getting a flu shot is important for everyone, but it's especially important for seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all people aged 65 and older get an annual flu shot to help protect them from the potentially serious consequences of influenza. Learn more about the reasons and where to get a flu shot:
The Benefits of the Flu Shot for Seniors
The flu shot is crucial for seniors, as the virus can severely affect older people. People over 65 may be at an increased risk of influenza-related complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization. Here's a look at some of the benefits:
Protection From The Flu And Other Serious Diseases
The flu shot not only protects against seasonal influenza but also other serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis that can occur with or without being exposed to the flu virus. For example, pneumococcal disease (PD) is caused by bacteria and causes severe respiratory illness that can lead to death in seniors. Getting vaccinated against PD significantly reduces your chances of becoming ill with this type of infection, as well as other types such as hepatitis B, shingles, HPV, and more.
Reduced Risk Of Complications
The CDC estimates that each year in the U.S., between 16,000 and 48,000 die due to complications from influenza viruses circulating during that period. However, those numbers could be much higher if not for vaccinations protecting Americans against these dangerous viruses.
In addition to reducing fatalities associated with influenza-related diseases among seniors, there are other benefits when getting vaccinated. These benefits include reduced severity of symptoms should you become ill despite vaccination efforts. It can also help to reduce hospitalizations associated with severe cases caused by certain strains of influenzas.
Vaccinations can decrease costs when seniors are hospitalized for treatment due to infections caused by the flu.
Vaccine Recommendations
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends yearly vaccinations against influenza beginning at the age of six months. They specifically recommend vaccination annually for adults aged 65 years or older due to their increased susceptibility to developing serious health consequences from Influenza infections.
Vaccines recommended may differ depending on a person's overall medical history, so consulting your doctor is always highly suggested before making any decisions regarding receiving any vaccinations.
When to Talk to Your Doctor Before Getting a Flu Shot
Before getting the flu shot, seniors should talk to their doctors about possible risk factors that could make them more likely to have an adverse reaction after receiving the vaccine. These risk factors include but are not limited to:
- Chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or COPD
- Weakened immune systems due to medications
- Allergies to eggs
Your doctor can also provide information about when it's safe for you to get vaccinated if you recently had certain illnesses or immunizations.
What To Expect After You Get A Flu Shot
Most people experience no side effects after getting the flu shot. However, some may experience minor soreness or redness around the injection site as well as low-grade fever, chills, and fatigue which usually resolve within 24 hours. For those who do experience side effects, they typically last only one to two days and very rarely result in more serious symptoms that require further medical attention from a healthcare provider.
It's important, however, to know potential signs and symptoms indicating adverse reactions occur because these might include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Swelling of the face or throat
These reactions require immediate treatment from a qualified professional.
Senior Helpers Roseville Can Help Remind You of Doctor's Appointments and More
When you or a senior loved one needs assistance with daily activities in St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, or North Oaks, MN, Senior Helpers Roseville can provide a helping hand. Reach out to us now to learn more about how we can help.