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The flu season is here, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory health is becoming a significant concern for most seniors. While the CDC mentions that a flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, a flu vaccine will reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death. A flu vaccine should be a priority for senior citizens due to their weak immune systems and any underlying health conditions that might compromise their immune system. For adults above the age of 65, you need to consult your physician on the type of vaccine you will need. According to the CDC and other selected scientific studies, the following are the benefits of flu vaccinations for seniors.

• Prevent seniors from getting sick with the flu.

According to the CDC, in 2018-2019, it was estimated the flu vaccination prevented 4.4 million influenza cases. Additionally, 2.3 million medical visits associated with influenza, 58,000 influenza-related hospitalizations, and 3,500 deaths linked to influenza were prevented.

• Reduces flu-associated hospitalization for seniors

Hospitalization for seniors can be risky due to declined immunity that results from age. Therefore, to avoid these hospitalization cases due to the flu, taking the vaccine can significantly maintain their health and keep them off hospitalizations.

• Preventive tool for seniors with underlying or chronic health conditions

As individuals age, health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes, to mention a few, become more prevalent. A flu vaccine reduces the worsening or hospitalization for seniors with such underlying conditions.

• Reduces the severity of the flu

Some seniors get vaccinated and still get sick with the flu. The vaccine can reduce the severity of the flu symptoms making it more manageable for seniors. It means that they could avoid hospitalizations or be admitted to the ICU over severe cases.

• Getting seniors vaccinated protects those around them.

In senior-living communities, vaccinations prevent the spread of the flu among other seniors; it could, in turn, stop a flu breakout, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to take personal responsibility by getting the flu shot. Not just for seniors but individuals across all age groups.

Remember to wear a mask, wash your hands or sanitize and observe social distancing.

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