According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu has killed many people over the years, including those who were in their mid-70s.

In this article, we will examine the prevalence of flu deaths in this demographic and the reasons why this group is particularly susceptible to the flu’s complications.

Why Are Those Over 75 at Risk of Flu Deaths?

The flu is a highly contagious and sometimes deadly virus that spreads through the air when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or talk.

Anyone can get ill from the flu, but those who are over 75 years old are particularly vulnerable due to several reasons:.

Aging weakens the immune system: One of the main reasons those over 75 are more susceptible to the flu is that their immune systems are not as strong as those younger. As a result, their bodies cannot fight off the flu virus as effectively, making them more vulnerable to getting ill and experiencing severe complications from the virus.
Pre-existing health conditions: elderly individuals may suffer from different diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases, which make them more susceptible to complications related to the flu.
Limited mobility: limited mobility pose a risk for elderly people as they tend to have reduced access to healthcare due to mobility complications, their attendance to medical care may be difficult leading to missed opportunity of care in case of such illness.

Flu Deaths Among the Elderly

Statistics show that flu deaths are considerably higher among seniors than other demographics. For example, the CDC reported 25,000 flu-related deaths in 2018-2019, and of those deaths, over 50% were in the over 75 age group.

The data from the CDC also revealed an increasingly-growing rate of flu-associated deaths among the elderly population in recent years.

Symptoms of the Flu in Seniors

The flu can manifest in various ways, which can be challenging to recognize, especially in seniors who might have additional underlying health concerns.

Hence, it is essential to take note of the symptoms to ensure that the right treatment is administered. Here are several common flu symptoms to look out for in seniors:.

Coughing and sneezing
Fever and chills
Body aches and muscle soreness
Breathing difficulty
Headache and fatigue
Sudden onset of symptoms

What to Do When a Senior Contract the Flu?

Prevention is always a preferable strategy over taking measures after being infected. However, when an elderly person contracts the flu, the most effective course of action involves managing their symptoms and administering the appropriate treatment.

Here are some essential steps to take:.

Ensure plenty of rest: The elderly should have adequate rest to combat the flu’s symptoms.
Administer medication: Over the counter medication such as antiviral medication and antibiotics can be effective in managing flu symptoms.
Get vaccinations: According to research, getting flu vaccines can lower the possibility of contracting the flu by up to 60%. It is important to consult with a doctor when getting flu vaccinations.
Keep symptoms at bay: Ensure to keep seniors as comfortable as possible, with regular temperature checks and intake of fluids.

Conclusion

Elderly persons over 75 years are at higher risk for flu-related complications as their bodies cannot fight off the virus as effectively as younger individuals.

It is imperative to take preventive measures such as flu vaccines and medication, which can alleviate the flu’s symptoms. If an elderly person has contracted the flu, providing adequate care and treatment can help manage their symptoms. With proper care and preventive measures, we can prevent the mortality rates of those over 75 years old.