Who should not receive live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)?

LAIV (FluMist) is contraindicated in pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, close contacts of severely immunocompromised patients, and adults 50 or older. Inactivated vaccines are preferred for these groups.

Why do adults 65 or older need high-dose influenza vaccine?

Immunosenescence reduces vaccine immune response in older adults. HD-IIV4 (4 times standard antigen) provides superior antibody titers and was shown to reduce influenza-related hospitalizations approximately 24% more than standard dose.

Can influenza vaccine cause influenza?

No. Inactivated vaccines contain killed virus and cannot cause influenza. Mild local reactions and transient symptoms are immune responses, not influenza infection.

Annual Influenza Vaccine Recommendation

Annual influenza vaccination recommended for all persons 6 months or older by ACIP. Adults 65 or older should receive high-dose or adjuvanted influenza vaccine (HD-IIV4 or aIIV3) preferentially. Optimal timing: by end of October each year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who should not receive live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)?

Why do adults 65 or older need high-dose influenza vaccine?

Can influenza vaccine cause influenza?