Effective Immunization of Older Adults Against Seasonal Influenza

The 2017-2018 influenza season reminds us that it is important for health care professionals to be prepared for the annual onslaught of this contagious respiratory disease associated with potentially serious complications. Vaccination is by far the best method to prevent and control influenza, reducing illness, hospitalizations, and mortality. The highest rates of influenza-associated morbidity and mortality are observed in older adults. The immune function of older adults decreases with increasing age, a phenomenon termed immunosenescence. Immunosenescence not only confers increased susceptibility to influenza disease, but also renders vaccination less effective. To address the need for improved vaccines that provide enhanced protection to this high-risk group, 2 formulations—a high-dose vaccine and an adjuvanted vaccine—have been approved in recent years specifically for people aged 65 years and over. Here we discuss: the challenges of influenza immunization in those 65 years and older; the recent advancements in vaccines targeted at this age group; and the latest influenza vaccine recommendations for the 2017-2018 influenza season in the United States.