This news item expired on Sunday, December 17, 2017 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
While flu seasons can differ in severity, during most seasons, adults 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe flu disease, making it especially important for older adults to get an annual flu shot. In recent years it is estimated that between 71% and 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred among people 65 years and older, and between 54% and 70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred among people in that age group.
While flu vaccine can vary in how well it works, during seasons when flu vaccines are well-matched to circulating flu viruses, getting vaccinated has been shown to reduce the risk of getting sick by 40% to 60%. Other studies show that flu vaccines also protect similarly against hospitalization. A yearly flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu illness.
You have the power to fight flu this season. Protect yourself and the ones you love with a flu vaccine. Learn more information about flu and flu vaccines for older adults.