High-Dose Fluzone Influenza vaccine for seniors – Better protection against the flu!
The influenza season is upon us again. We’re pleased to be able to offer the High-Dose Fluzone vaccine to our clients who are 65 years of age and older. We’ve had great interest already from senior clients preparing their trips overseas. Clients who are eligible often decide to receive the High-Dose Fluzone when they learn more about its benefits and how it differs from the public health vaccine that is covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
According to Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization, adults 65 years of age and older account for 15% of the Canadian population but experienced 70% of influenza-related hospitalizations and 91% of influenza-related deaths in 2014-2015.
What is the High-Dose Fluzone Influenza vaccine?
The Fluzone High-Dose vaccine is an inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine that contains four times the antigen content than the standard influenza vaccine formulation. Antigens are the proteins contained in the vaccines that cause an immune response. As we age there is a natural weakening of the immune system which causes older adults to become less responsive to the standard-dose influenza vaccine. Fluzone High-Dose has been proven to be more efficacious in people 65 or older and provides a greater immune response than the MSP vaccine.
Who is recommended to receive the High-Dose Fluzone vaccine?
The vaccine is recommended for people 65 years of age and older. This includes seniors who are fit and healthy, individuals who may have a chronic health condition(s) such as diabetes or heart disease, and for seniors who have immune-compromising conditions.
As we get older recovering from illness can take longer due to natural weakening of the immune response. Those with chronic underlying diseases can experience worsening of their disease and healthy individuals can develop complications such as pneumonia. Protecting your health and avoiding illness is important. The High-Dose Fluzone vaccine can safely be administered to individuals with a history of a chronic illness. Although Fluzone High-Dose is not offered for free as part of British Columbia’s influenza vaccine program, Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends High-Dose Fluzone over the standard-dose vaccine because it is expected to be more effective.
How can I prevent Influenza?
Influenza can be avoided by receiving the Influenza vaccine every year, frequent hand washing, staying at home when you are sick, and coughing and sneezing into your shirt sleeve rather than in your hand.
The High-Dose Fluzone Influenza vaccine is not covered by MSP. The vaccine is $60.00 + $20.00 vaccine administration fee. You do not need a prescription from your family doctor to receive this vaccine. You can call us to arrange an appointment at (604)251-1975 or book an appointment online.
