The various types of influenza vaccines for the elderly, which one is effective?

The most effective way to prevent influenza transmission in the elderly is by giving vaccines. Considering that there are many types of influenza viruses, the types of influenza vaccines for the elderly also vary. So, which type of vaccine is most suitable for the elderly?

Types of influenza vaccines available in Indonesia

There are two types of influenza viruses that can attack humans, namely influenza A and B viruses. The influenza A virus is divided into dozens of different virus subtypes. Some examples are H1N1, H3N1, and H3N2.

Several virus subtypes can cause severe influenza disease in humans. Therefore, the influenza vaccine is designed to prevent several influenza A and B viruses at once.

The influenza vaccine is divided into two, namely the trivalent and quadrivalent vaccines. Here are the differences between the two.

1. Trivalent influenza vaccine

Trivalent influenza vaccine is a type of vaccine that contains two types of influenza A viruses (H1N1 and H3N2) and one type of influenza B virus. The vaccine is made annually based on the type of virus that is expected to emerge in the following season.

Vaccine is administered by injection for ages 5 and over, as well jet injector for adults aged 18-64 years. Seniors aged 65 years and over generally need to receive high doses of the trivalent influenza vaccine.

2. Quadrivalent influenza vaccine

The quadrivalent influenza vaccine is a vaccine that contains two influenza A virus subtypes and two influenza B virus subtypes. This vaccine is designed to increase protection against influenza B viruses that are not covered by the trivalent vaccine.

The route and timing of quadrivalent influenza vaccine was based on the type of vaccine and the age of the recipient. Vaccine injections can be given from the age of 6 months or 3 years, temporarily jet injector vaccines can be used in individuals aged 18-64 years.

A quadrivalent influenza vaccine is also available as a nasal spray and is safe for those aged 2-49 years. However, pregnant women and people with medical problems should not use it.

The most suitable type of influenza vaccine for the elderly

Quoting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The most suitable influenza vaccine for the elderly is the trivalent high-dose vaccine. This vaccine has a special license for individuals aged 65 years and over.

The high-dose vaccine contains four times as many antigens as the regular influenza vaccine. Antigen is a vaccine component that helps the body build protection against the influenza virus.

A higher amount of antigen can increase the immune system response in the elderly. That way, the elderly have sufficient body defenses to ward off influenza virus infection.

"The results also show that high-dose influenza vaccines are proven to be effective in preventing influenza in the elderly," said Prof. Dr. dr. Siti Setiati, SpPD, K-Ger, in an exclusive interview with the Hello Sehat team in Kuningan, South Jakarta, Friday (05/07).

However, the obstacle currently facing Indonesia is not how effective a vaccine is, but rather the awareness to vaccinate. Doctor Siti also added that vaccination coverage in Indonesia is not even up to one percent.

Therefore, he encourages every community who lives with the elderly to routinely carry out vaccinations for common health. Vaccination is very useful for preventing influenza and its life-threatening complications.

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