The FDA has approved a new flu shot for individuals over the age of 65. The shot, called Fluzone High Dose has four times the amount of antigen (virus particles) than a regular seasonal flu shot. Why increase the dose? Studies have shown that the immune response of elderly patients is much lower than other adults. Additionally, the elderly are more likely to develop serious complications from influenza. The new vaccine will be available for the 2010-2011 flu season. So does a higher dose mean more side effects? That's a tricky question. Manufacturers claim that since the antigen is a killed virus you are not at a higher risk of developing serious complications than you would be if you took the standard dose. However, studies did show an increased incidence of "mild" side effects such as redness and swelling in the muscle where the injection was given, headaches, and fever.
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Yuch! I sure will never take another one of those. The Safeway pharmacist talked me into it last fall. Made me sick as a dog. Then had severe cold or flu in the winter, followed by the worst respiratory infection I’ve ever had in my life during the spring — took eight or ten weeks to throw off the worst of it, many more weeks to finally feel back to normal.
Thanks. I can get sick without taking a shot to make me sick.
I want to thank you for this post. I have used this post’s information for getting recovery in my grandfather’s health who had really need this flu shot. I think this flu shot is perfect for him.