What brand of flu shot is over 65? Your Guide to Recommended Options

According to the CDC, people 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe flu disease, making specialized flu protection essential. Understanding what brand of flu shot is over 65 is the first step toward better immunity and prevention of serious complications.

Quick Summary

For adults 65 and older, the CDC preferentially recommends three specific brands: Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Fluad Quadrivalent (adjuvanted), and Flublok Quadrivalent (recombinant). These options are designed to provide a more robust immune response compared to standard-dose vaccines, offering enhanced protection against the flu.

Key Points

• CDC Recommendation: For adults 65 and older, the CDC preferentially recommends high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant flu vaccines over standard-dose options [1].

• Fluzone High-Dose: This vaccine contains four times the antigen of a standard shot to create a more potent immune response in seniors [1].

• Fluad Adjuvanted: Fluad includes an adjuvant to boost the immune system's response, potentially leading to broader and longer-lasting protection [1].

• Flublok Recombinant: Flublok is an egg-free option, suitable for those with severe egg allergies, and uses recombinant technology with a higher antigen dose [1].

• Prioritizing Vaccination: Even if a preferred vaccine is unavailable, receiving any age-appropriate flu vaccine is recommended over delaying or forgoing vaccination [1].

• Consult a Doctor: Your healthcare provider can help determine the best vaccine brand for you based on your health profile and any allergies [1].

Preferred Flu Vaccine Brands for Seniors

For adults aged 65 and older, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) preferentially recommend specific flu vaccines [1]. These vaccines are recommended based on evidence suggesting they provide a stronger immune response in older adults [1]. There is no preference among the recommended brands; they are all considered more effective for this age group than standard-dose vaccines [1].

Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent

Fluzone High-Dose contains four times the antigen compared to a standard dose vaccine [1]. This increased antigen content is intended to enhance the immune response in older adults [1]. Studies suggest it is more effective at preventing flu in adults 65 and older than standard doses [1]. Side effects are typically mild but may occur slightly more often than with standard doses [1].

Fluad Quadrivalent (Adjuvanted)

Fluad Quadrivalent uses an adjuvant called MF59 to boost the immune response [1]. An adjuvant helps to strengthen the body's reaction to the vaccine [1]. This adjuvant is an oil-in-water emulsion designed to potentially create a stronger and longer-lasting immune response than a standard vaccine [1].

Flublok Quadrivalent (Recombinant)

Flublok Quadrivalent is a recombinant vaccine produced without using eggs, which makes it an option for individuals with severe egg allergies [1]. Flublok contains three times the amount of antigen compared to a standard-dose vaccine, aiming for a potent immune response [1].

Comparison of Preferred Flu Shots for Adults 65+

For a detailed comparison of the key features of the CDC's preferentially recommended options for adults 65 and older, please refer to the {Link: CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm} [1].

Making Your Vaccine Choice

Discussing your vaccine options with a healthcare provider is important, considering your health and allergies [1]. If the preferred high-dose or adjuvanted options are not available, getting a standard-dose vaccine is still beneficial [1]. Any age-appropriate flu vaccine is better than none [1]. Annual vaccination is important for protection [1]. Additional information is available on the {Link: CDC Flu and People 65 Years and Older https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm} website [1].

Conclusion: Prioritizing Your Protection

For adults aged 65 and older, health authorities favor specialized flu vaccines such as Fluzone High-Dose, Fluad, and Flublok due to the stronger immune response they offer [1]. These vaccines are designed to provide enhanced protection against the flu and potential severe complications in older adults [1]. While mild, temporary side effects may be slightly more common with high-dose and adjuvanted options, they are typically manageable [1]. Consulting your doctor and getting vaccinated annually are important steps for health protection during flu season [1].

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people over 65 need a different flu shot brand?

As people age, their immune systems weaken, increasing susceptibility to severe flu complications. Specialized vaccines like high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant options are designed to provoke a stronger immune response, providing better protection for this vulnerable population [1].

What is the main difference between Fluzone High-Dose and a standard flu shot?

Fluzone High-Dose contains four times the amount of antigen—the part of the vaccine that triggers antibody production—compared to a standard flu shot [1]. This higher concentration aims to generate a more powerful protective response in older adults [1].

Is the Fluad Quadrivalent flu shot brand safe for seniors?

Yes, Fluad is safe and approved for individuals 65 and older [1]. Its adjuvant is a safe method to enhance the body's immune reaction and has a long history of safe use [1].

Can I get a severe egg allergy reaction from Fluzone or Fluad?

Most people with egg allergies can safely receive egg-based flu vaccines like Fluzone and Fluad [1]. Those with severe reactions should consult a healthcare professional. Flublok is a recommended egg-free alternative [1].

If my preferred flu shot brand for seniors isn't available, what should I do?

If a preferred high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant vaccine isn't available, you should still get a standard-dose, age-appropriate flu vaccine [1]. Medical experts agree any flu vaccine is better than none [1].

Are there more side effects with the special flu shot brands for over 65?

Some high-dose and adjuvanted vaccines may cause slightly more frequent or pronounced mild side effects like arm soreness or muscle aches [1]. These are temporary and indicate a stronger immune response [1].

Why is Flublok a good option for seniors over 65?

Flublok is a good option because it's egg-free, suitable for individuals with egg allergies [1]. Its recombinant technology uses a higher antigen dose for a strong immune response, making it one of the CDC's preferred choices for older adults [1].