Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

It affects people of different ages, but the elderly population is more susceptible to severe complications and death due to its weakened immune system. In this article, we will explore why influenza is more dangerous for seniors and how they can protect themselves.

What Makes Seniors More at Risk for Influenza?

Symptoms of influenza are generally mild, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. However, they can lead to severe complications in seniors due to their weakened immune system.

Our immune system helps our body fight infections, but it becomes less effective as we age, making it more difficult for seniors to fight off infections like influenza.

Moreover, seniors are more likely to have chronic health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and kidney disease, which can worsen due to influenza.

As a result, they are more likely to be hospitalized and sometimes even die from the flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people aged 65 years and older accounted for more than 70% of flu-related hospitalizations and 85% of flu-related deaths during the 2019-2020 flu season in the United States.

How Can Seniors Protect Themselves from Influenza?

Preventing influenza is crucial for seniors to avoid severe complications and death. The best way to prevent influenza is to get a flu vaccine every year, ideally before the flu season starts.

The flu vaccine is safe and effective and can reduce the risk of getting sick by up to 60%. Moreover, even if someone gets infected, the vaccine can lessen the severity and duration of the illness. Seniors can consult their healthcare provider to know which flu vaccine is right for them.

In addition to getting vaccinated, seniors can take other precautions to avoid getting infected with the influenza virus, including:.

Washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers
Avoiding close contact with sick people
Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue or their elbow
Wearing a mask when in public or around other people
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and objects

What Should Seniors Do if They Get Influenza?

If a senior experiences flu-like symptoms, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness and prevent complications.

Antivirals work best when taken within the first 48 hours of getting sick and usually require a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Moreover, seniors should take other measures to manage their symptoms, including:.

Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
Taking over-the-counter medications for fever, body aches, and cough as directed by a healthcare provider
Getting plenty of rest
Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
Eating healthy foods to boost their immune system

When Should Seniors Seek Emergency Medical Attention?

If a senior experiences any of the following symptoms, they should seek emergency medical attention immediately:.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
Sudden dizziness or confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Seizures or convulsions

These symptoms may indicate severe complications of the flu, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening.

Conclusion

Influenza is a serious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications and even death, especially among the elderly population with weakened immune systems.

Seniors can protect themselves from influenza by getting vaccinated, taking precautions to avoid getting infected, and seeking early treatment if they get sick. By taking these measures, seniors can reduce their risk of developing severe complications and enjoy a healthier life.