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Types, Cost, and Reasons For Seniors to Get Their Flu Shot

October 12, 2018

Flu Shots for Pittsburgh Seniors

Types, Cost, and Reasons For Seniors to Get Their Flu Shot

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include coughing, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, chills, and runny nose.
 
The flu can strike in the fall, winter, or spring, although outbreaks tend to peak between December and February. Some people who get the flu recover in about one to two weeks without major complications.
 
In seniors — those ages 65 and older — the flu can cause life-threatening complications. This is why it’s important for older adults to get an annual flu shot.Here’s what you need to know about flu shots for seniors, including the types and reasons to get one.

Types of flu shots for older adults
The seasonal flu shot is approved for most people ages 6 months and older. The shot is typically injected into the arm, either in a muscle or underneath the skin.

It’s important to understand that flu shots aren’t one-size-fits-all. There are different types of flu shots, and some are specific for different age groups.
 
If you’re a senior and considering getting a flu shot this season, chances are your doctor will recommend a flu shot designed specifically for people ages 65 and older.

One type of flu vaccine for older adults is called Fluzone. This is a high-dose trivalent vaccine. A trivalent vaccine protects against three strains of the virus: influenza A [H1N1], influenza A [H3N2], and the influenza B virus.
 
The flu vaccine works by stimulating the production of antibodies in your body that can protect against the flu virus. Antigens are the components that stimulate the production of these antibodies.
 
A high-dose vaccine is designed to strengthen the immune system response in older adults, thus lowering the risk of infection.
 
Another flu vaccine is Fluad, a standard-dose trivalent shot made with adjuvant. Adjuvant is another ingredient that produces a stronger immune system response. It’s also designed specifically for people ages 65 and older.
 
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