Are there any age related issues with getting the flu shot? I have heard that in some people it can actually make you sicker. My parents are in their late seventies.
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Is it worth getting the flu shot this year for my parents?
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1 UpVoted this answer
Yes it is worth getting the flu shots as it protects you from the expected influenza viruses. The elderly are especially vulnerable to potentially life threatening infections and should get this every year. Some people have an exagerated response the the flu vaccines, but this is the immune system gearing up to protect the recipient from the flu viruses. It can save lives.
Despite all the medical opinions to the contrary, flu shots are not benign and there are alternatives.
At their age, it is actually very important to get the flu shot! Also, as in their age, flu shot last shorter than in younger people, make sure that they get the special, longer lasting shot for the elderly. If their doctor does not carry those, they should get one regular flu shot in mid-September, and another one in mid-January. Hope this helps. Take care. Dr N
Since the vaccine is prepared by culturing the flu virus on egg membranes, people can develop reactions, if allergic to eggs. I have also seen a rare case of side effects from the preservatives added to the vaccine. One often hears "I got flu after getting a flu shot". The virus in the vaccine is a dead virus and cannot cause flu. There is no age limitation for the flu shot.
Yes this year and every year (if there were no egg allergy). Both should also get pneumonia vaccine about every five to ten years.
Yes, your parents should receive the vaccine. In most flu seasons, older adults have more severe cases and possibly life-threatening complications. Since the injected vaccine does not contain any live virus, it cannot give anyone the flu. However, older adults may not develop as much immunity from the shot as younger people, so it is equally important that you and anyone else who regularly comes in contact with your parents (such as caretakers) also receive the flu shot. That would provide the best protection for them.