According to experts, almost 70 to 85 percent of flu-related deaths occur in patients who are 65 years or older. Seniors are at high risk of suffering the flu and severe complications due to their weaker immune systems. Every year, health professionals recommend people 65 years or older get their flu shots as a preventative measure.

Experts developed a new high dose flu shot to prevent flu complications in seniors. Maybe you have considered taking your loved one to get this flu shot or even getting it yourself. But, is it your best option?

Not sure? We’ll tell you 5 must-know facts about the new flu vaccine for seniors. Read on to make an informed decision.

Only Administered to Seniors

In the United States, the new flu shot for seniors can only be administered to seniors due to the dosage. Also, experts developed the vaccine to strengthen the immune system of people 65 or older.

Lowers the Risk of Flu-Related Hospitalizations

According to a study from The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, the administration of this new vaccine reduced the risk of flu-related hospitalizations more than the standard dosage. Seniors living in long-term care facilities saw the biggest decrease.

Contains Four Times the Antigen of the Standard Vaccine

This flu vaccine contains more antigens than the standard vaccine to strengthen the patient’s immune response. Boosting your immune system can help protect you from the flu.

More Effective Than the Standard Flu Shot

Experts have found this vaccine to be 24.2 percent more effective in preventing the flu in seniors than the standard shot. This effectiveness is one of the biggest benefits of this vaccine.

If you have been getting the standard flu shot for a while, the effectiveness of this shot will decrease. The new high dose shot boosts your immune system while preventing the flu effectively.

Same Side Effects as the Standard Dose

You may be thinking twice about getting this vaccine because you assume it has different side effects. Yet, that’s far from the truth. Experts have found it has the typical flu shot side effects.

The most common side effects of the flu shot in the elderly are redness and swelling on the injection site, headaches, pain, and muscle ache. The only difference is that the high dose vaccine may result in more side effects.

Is the New Flu Vaccine for Seniors the Best Preventative Treatment?

Yes, the new flu vaccine for seniors is one of the best preventative treatment options available today. If you or your loved one is a senior, you should consider getting the high dosage flu shot instead of the standard dose. Getting the right preventative treatment can protect you from the flu and any related complications.

Need help scheduling your visit to get your elder loved one or your flu shot? We can help. Contact us today to learn more about our senior care program.

If you enjoyed this post, you may want to also read, “5 Tips for Seniors to Stay Active During the Winter.”