Influenza in the elderly: report of an outbreak and a review of vaccine effectiveness reports

摘要: An outbreak of influenza A in nursing home residents is reported and other studies vaccine effectiveness elderly populations are reviewed. The occurred a Los Angeles between February March 1983. Of the 87 residents, 46 (53%) were affected with influenza-like illness. Attack rates similar immunized unimmunized (52% versus 58%), yielded estimate 10%. No additional protection could be demonstrated who received for two consecutive years. Seven persons died (mortality rate 8.1%); mortality was greater (15.8%) than (6.2%). Because this study field limited precision power, statistical summary various constructed. Summarizing institutionalized (in hospitals retirement homes) an 74% average reduction, 33% preventing clinical For non-institutionalized elderly, corresponding estimates 47% mortality, 5% Despite obvious limitations such summaries, it seems reasonable to conclude that vaccines have on been clear benefit while benefits less dramatic may warrant further investigation.