Senior Flu Shot

There are 2 vaccines available for people 65 and older, High-Dose Fluzone and FLUAD. We refer to these vaccines as senior flu shots. One vaccine works by providing a higher dose of antigen, the other works by adding an adjuvant which helps boost immunity.

Both are effective and approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and covered under most Medicare B plans. Click on the links below for more information regarding each vaccine.

Fluzone and FLUAD for Senior Flu Shots

As you get older, your immune system weakens, which means your antibody response after getting a traditional flu vaccine isn’t as high as it used to be. High-Dose Fluzone helps boost immunity in people 65 and older. Click here for more information on High-Dose Fluzone.

FLUAD is the newest senior flu vaccination. It contains an immune-enhancing ingredient (adjuvant) that can help provide a strong immune response to the flu. Click here for more information on FLUAD.

Based on new CDC and ACIP recommendations, FLUAD is now an acceptable alternative to other vaccines licensed for people 65 and older. There is no preferential recommendation made for any flu vaccine formulation for this age group.

Why Flu Vaccination Is Especially Important for Seniors

Adults aged 65 and older are at higher risk for serious complications from Influenza. Aging weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight infections and increasing the likelihood of severe illness.

Older adults account for the majority of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths each year in the United States. Complications can include pneumonia, worsening of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease, and in severe cases, death.

Even when a flu vaccine does not completely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity of illness, risk of hospitalization, and risk of death in older adults. Studies have shown that higher-dose and adjuvanted vaccines may provide better protection in this age group compared to standard-dose vaccines.

Additional Considerations for Seniors

• Caregivers and family members are also encouraged to get vaccinated to help protect older adults from exposure.
• Flu symptoms in older adults may be less obvious, sometimes without a high fever, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.
• Seniors living in group settings, such as nursing homes or assisted living facilities, are at increased risk of exposure.
• Getting vaccinated each year is important because flu viruses change, and immunity from the vaccine declines over time.