Decisions, decisions – life is full of them at every age and stage. As with anything, there are several different options for annual flu shots, but which one is right for older adults? Here are some helpful tips to stay updated on the latest information:
Standard flu shot: The standard flu shot contains inactivated, or dead virus and is safe for ages 6 months and older who have not experienced contraindications to the vaccine.
Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) nasal spray: The LAIV contains live but weakened influenza virus and is sprayed into the nose. This vaccine is NOT recommended for persons over 50 years of age.
Quadrivalent flu vaccine: The quadrivalent flu vaccine was created to protect recipients against four different flu viruses: two influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses. For many years, flu vaccines only protected people against three strains of the flu virus, or were trivalent. When they were trivalent, the vaccines protected people against two A viruses but just one B virus. Adding protection against an additional B virus provides for even broader protection. Standard-dose quadrivalent shots are approved for people 3 years and older. However, as mentioned above, the quadrivalent nasal spray vaccine is NOT approved for people 50 and older.
High dose influenza vaccine: Seniors can choose a higher-dose vaccine that is designed specifically for people age 65 and older. Fluzone high-dose vaccines contain four times the amount of antigen (the part of the vaccine that prompts the body to make antibody) found in regular flu shots. Because aging decreases the body’s ability to have a good immune response after vaccination, the additional antigen is intended to create a stronger immune response and thus better protection against the flu. Learn more here.
Intradermal flu vaccination: Fluzone Intradermal was first distributed to the masses during the 2011-2012 flu season, and is a shot that is injected into one’s skin instead of into one’s muscle. Because the shot does not need to reach the muscle, the intradermal shot uses a much smaller needle than the regular flu shot. It also requires less antigen to be as effective. However it is NOT recommended for adults age 65 and over.
Each of these flu vaccinations protects the recipient against the H1N1 virus strain. To learn more, visit this page of the CDC website.
At Independence-4-Seniors, we can help to encourage and facilitate proper vaccinations as a part of healthy aging. To learn more about our home care services or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact us online or call us at 630-323-4665.