Influenza in the Elderly is considered a health problem with a higher risk than the general population. Although influenza may seem like a self-limiting illness that resolves quickly, for those aged 65 and older, especially those with underlying diseases, severe complications may occur, requiring hospitalization or even resulting in death.

Differences Between Influenza in the Elderly and the General Population

Generally, influenza causes high fever, cough, body aches, and resolves on its own within 3-5 days in healthy individuals. However, in the elderly, especially those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, or chronic kidney disease, symptoms may be more severe, requiring hospitalization or leading to life-threatening complications.

Statistics in Thailand indicate that the groups with the highest hospitalization rates from influenza are “young children” and “the elderly.”

How Dangerous is Influenza in the Elderly?

Elderly individuals infected with influenza may experience serious health impacts, including

Increased risk of ischemic stroke by up to 8 times
Increased risk of acute myocardial infarction by up to 10 times
23% of patients will lose the ability to care for themselves after illness
More than 75% of diabetic patients will experience abnormal blood sugar levels

Why Are the Elderly at Higher Risk?

There are 3 main factors that make the elderly more vulnerable to influenza than the general population

Immunosenescence

As age increases, the body’s response to pathogens and vaccines decreases, increasing the risk of infection and complications.

Underlying Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease cause more severe symptoms when infected with influenza and increase the risk of death.

Frailty in the Elderly

Elderly individuals with frailty have reduced recovery ability, and if infected along with chronic diseases, it may lead to disability or dependency.

How Necessary is the Influenza Vaccine for the Elderly?

Influenza Vaccine: Prevention Before Illness

Annual influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease, especially in the elderly with weakened immunity. The vaccine is updated to match the circulating strains each year and should be administered before the rainy or winter season annually.

High Dose Influenza Vaccine

The elderly should consider receiving the high dose influenza vaccine, which is more effective than the standard vaccine. Studies in the elderly have shown:

24% reduction in symptomatic infections
64.4% reduction in hospitalizations due to influenza
48.9% reduction in deaths from complications

The high dose vaccine is very safe and has been used in more than 202 million doses across over 35 countries worldwide.

Influenza in the Elderly is Easily Prevented by Annual Vaccination

Influenza in the elderly should not be overlooked as it can cause severe and permanent health impacts. The most effective prevention is the high dose influenza vaccine, specifically designed for the elderly to boost immunity and reduce the risk of complications.