Even last year’s influenza vaccine may protect you

According to a study of influenza vaccination conducted in Spain, it is advisable for the elderly to get vaccinated at least two times. Just two vaccinations may offer protection against serious illness requiring intensive care.

The study was conducted at twenty hospitals in Spain during two consecutive winters. It compared hospitalised patients over 65 years of age, some of whom had been vaccinated against influenza and some not. The study found that those who had been vaccinated in two out of three winters had less severe influenza; they might catch it, but it remained milder. They also needed less hospital care or high-cost intensive care, and they had a lower risk of death.

Influenza vaccination is free of charge for people over 65 years of age in both Finland and Spain. In Finland, 47 per cent of people over 65 years of age had the vaccination last winter. The percentage is higher than the winter before.

Vaccination also protects against secondary diseases

Influenza vaccination will also help protect you against unpleasant secondary diseases, most commonly ear infections, sinusitis or pneumonia. Pneumonia is particularly dangerous for the elderly because it can cause a rapid decline in health.

References:

• HS