Improved Flu Protection for Seniors

A Danish study reported that high-dose flu vaccines can lower hospital admissions for flu and pneumonia by 64.4% and reduce death rates by 48.9%. Influenza remains a significant threat to those over 65, with 80% of flu-related fatalities occurring in this age group. Seniors are ten times more likely to face hospitalisation due to complications like pneumonia, heart attacks, or strokes.

Regional Efforts to Tackle Flu Burden

Over 400 experts from around the globe gathered at a seminar on influenza to discuss strategies for improving flu vaccination. Key topics included the impact of flu on Southeast Asia, flu complications in high-risk groups, and boosting vaccine adoption. Discussions highlighted the pressing need for better flu vaccines and higher immunisation rates, especially among vulnerable populations.

In Thailand, flu cases rose to 603,000 in 2024, a 25% increase compared to 2023, according to health authorities. Tragically, 47 deaths were recorded. Thailand’s vaccination program, launched in 2011, provides six million doses annually to high-risk groups and the elderly, with additional vaccines offered by private providers. Despite progress, vaccine coverage in the elderly remains below the WHO-recommended 75%, with efforts underway to improve access and uptake.

Economic and Health Impacts of Flu

Thailand’s annual economic burden from flu is estimated at 3.04 billion THB. Treating flu patients costs an average of 7,632 THB for outpatient visits and 178,000 THB for hospital admissions. With 20% of Thailand’s population aged 60 and above, improving flu vaccination rates could significantly reduce healthcare expenses and save lives.

Expert Insights on Flu Vaccines

Experts stress the importance of high-quality vaccine development to enhance elderly care. Randomised controlled trials combined with real-world data offer critical insights into vaccine effectiveness. In Denmark, a high-dose flu vaccine study showed remarkable protection, cutting hospitalisation rates and fatalities compared to standard flu vaccines.

High-dose flu vaccines are particularly crucial for seniors as they mitigate risks of severe complications, such as increased chances of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. They represent a step towards broader “Protection Beyond Flu,” offering improved health outcomes for older populations.

References
Study on high-dose flu vaccine effectiveness: Niklas Dyrby Johansen et al., NEJM Evid 2023
Economic burden estimates: Kiertiburanakul et al., Journal of Healthcare Organization, Provision and Financing (2020)