11-8-05

Flu Shots For Seniors

Influenza is more than just an inconvenience, especially for senior citizens. It is a significant health threat that sends more than 200,000 Americans to the hospital each year.

Influenza is among the top five causes of death for senior citizens, but getting a flu vaccination can help prevent it. Dr. Richard Rosher, associate professor of internal medicine at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says seniors are more susceptible influenza because as people age, their bodies do not fight off infections as well.

SOUND BITE: ". . . we have aging related diseases such as heart disease and lung disease and if individuals develop influenza and have these underlying problems, then they are more prone to complications of influenza."

Dr. Rosher says cases of influenza have been reported in almost any month, but seems to peak during the months of December, January, February and March. He also stresses the importance of getting vaccinated against pneumonia.

SOUND BITE: " . . . every person over the age of 65 should receive at least one pneumonia vaccine shot in their lifetime. There are certain conditions in which that vaccine has to be repeated approximately five to six years, but unlike the flu vaccine, which should be taken every year, pneumonia vaccine is one to a customer, after age 65."

Dr. Rosher says there seems to be an ample supply of flu vaccine this year. The best time to be vaccinated is now through the end of November. To get a flu shot, contact your primary care physician or public health department.