Flu Shots Reduce Older Adult Hospitalizations

The U.S. CDC published a new Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (73(6);1–18) today that confirmed from the 2010–11 through 2022–23 influenza seasons, older adults (aged ≥65 years) consistently had the highest laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalization rates than other age groups.

The CDC wrote on October 31, 2024, that studies have demonstrated that vaccinated, hospitalized adult patients have a 26%–59% reduced risk of being admitted to the ICU and a 31% reduced risk of death compared with unvaccinated patients.

This data revealed many seniors were unprotected against influenza infection.

Adults aged ≥65 who were hospitalized with influenza consistently had the highest proportion of current-season influenza vaccine receipt (range = 40.9% during 2022–23 to 60.7% during 2018–19). 

According to the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting last week, all persons should receive influenza vaccinations. Still, it is essential for those with underlying medical conditions to be vaccinated because of the elevated risk of complications from an influenza virus infection.

As of the end of October, about 100 million flu shots had been distributed to healthcare providers in the U.S. These vaccines are generally available at clinics and pharmacies.