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Do flu vaccines work for the elderly?

Review suggests study is needed on influenza jabs and how they are used.

How effective are flu vaccines at preventing death in the elderly? A review suggests that there isn't actually much proof that these jabs prevent influenza-related deaths in older people, stirring up controversy over this issue once more. The debate could influence both how the elderly are treated against flu, and how vaccines are distributed to try to prevent epidemics.

Read the story here.

Posted by Nicola Jones on September 25, 2007 12:01 AM |

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(1) Do flu vaccines work for the elderly?

They undoubtedly do. This is of prime importance.

(2) Quantify the vaccine's efficiency at preventing death of elderly?

Interesting, but definitely of secondary importance.

(3) In case of shortage of flu vaccines, should children be treated whereas the elderly refused vaccine?

THIS is the real question raised here, i.e. who is to assume the role and responsibility of god...

Posted by: Dov Henis | September 25, 2007 03:59 PM

Hi,
In the Swiss municipality of Shaffhausen to save the high cost of Hepatitis vaccines I measured the whole canton for antibodies against Hepatitis. (The results have been published) Around thirty percent had antibodies against the virus; ten percent were classed as immune deficient. Your question about vaccines for the elderly is a difficult question. An economical alternative is high dose vitamin C two to three grams a day.
Regards Dr. Terence Hale

Posted by: Terence Hale | September 26, 2007 11:02 AM

Can Dr Hale point to any credible evidence that high dose vitamin C prevents otherwise well nourished elderly people from catching flu? The latest meta-analysis does not support this claim (see http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/77226.php).

Posted by: Robert Loblay | October 3, 2007 12:23 AM

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