This week doctors and health advocates are now making their annual pitch as December 5-11 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. These groups are reminding Americans to get their flu shots but there is a new type of flu shot this year designed specifically for the senior population. The new flu shot, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, is called the Fluzone High-Dose and contain almost four times the amount of antigen. The antigen injected activates the body’s immune system by introducing flu virus into the body to help build up natural defenses against the flu virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), data from clinical trials comparing Fluzone to Fluzone High-Dose among persons aged 65 years or older indicate that a stronger immune response (i.e. higher antibody levels) occurs after vaccination with Fluzone High-Dose. Covered by Medicare Part B, the enhanced flu shot is a must have this flu season.
