A Structured Approach to Influenza Vaccination
Influenza has a major impact on older adults. The majority of the annual 12,200 influenza-associated hospitalizations in Canada occur in people 65 years of age and older.1 Of those with laboratory confirmed influenza, >13% will experience catastrophic disability and face the prospect of loss of independence and quality of life.2 This demographic also incurs more than 90% of influenza-related deaths.3 The most effective strategy to reduce this influenza burden is through vaccination, and adults aged 65 years and older now have more options available to them.4
This discussion explores how to actively approach older patients to discuss influenza vaccine options. The goal is to reduce the older patient’s risk of influenza and its associated morbidity and mortality.