The flu poses a serious threat to the elderly due to a weakened immune system and comorbidities. People over the age of 65 face an increased risk of complications, including hospitalizations, cardiovascular problems, pneumonia, and death. Between October 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that influenza caused 34-75 million illnesses, 15-33 million medical visits, 380,000-900,000 hospitalizations, and 17,000-100,000 deaths in the United States. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), influenza annually causes between 250,000 and 500,000 deaths, of which it is estimated. approximately 38,500 occur in Europe The aim of this paper was to analyze the risks posed by influenza to the elderly population, with a focus on comorbidities and the impact of vaccination in reducing these risks, as well as the benefits of new vaccines for this risk group. The risk of complications increases with age and concomitant diseases. Cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks and exacerbation of heart failure, are often the result of influenza infection. Pneumonia is the leading cause of mortality, occurring in approximately 10% of those infected. Although the immune response to vaccines may be weaker in the elderly, research demonstrates their benefits. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe outcomes. A new generation of vaccines, such as high-dose and adjuvanted vaccines, improve the immune response and protection. Influenza vaccination provides significant protection for the elderly, reducing the severity of the disease and the mortality rate. Advances in the development of new vaccines improve outcomes in this risk group, making vaccination a key strategy in preventing complications of influenza.
Miljković et al. (Wed,) studied this question.