Nationally, up to 70% of flu hospitalizations have occurred in patients over 65. Because the immune system naturally weakens with age and older adults don’t always develop the same level of immunity through vaccination as younger people, they may benefit from the additional protection of having those they are in regular, close contact also be vaccinated. As for those living with underlying health conditions like chronic lung disease, diabetes and chronic heart disease, flu illness can become severe, while also making chronic disease management more difficult.
