Seniors and the Flu

Flu season is the worst. No one likes being sick. But for those over 65, the flu can be dangerous. According to the CDC, between 70-85% of influenza deaths per year are senior citizens. That’s why it is so important to understand how to recognize flu symptoms and how to stay safe during the flu season.

Recognizing symptoms

When looking at flu symptoms, we need to remember there are a few main types of flu-like illnesses: the common cold, influenza, RSV and coronaviruses (like COVID-19). They share many similar symptoms but have increasing risk to the senior population.

Common symptoms of all these illnesses include:

• Runny nose
• Congestion
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Headache

More serious symptoms include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/having chills
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Muscle pain and/or body aches
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea

If you are experiencing serious symptoms, you are likely suffering from the flu, COVID-19 or RSV. Each illness can cause health complications, hospitalization or death. Please contact your doctor or go to the hospital if you experience serious health symptoms, especially those that affect breathing.

Is it COVID-19?

If you are getting sick, you might be asking yourself if the symptoms you are experiencing are COVID-19. It’s important to get tested for COVID-19 if you think you might have been exposed and are experiencing symptoms. Continued vigilance is one of our best defenses against the continuing spread of this virus. Home testing kits are now widely available, and COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are covered by Medicare to help lower your risk of serious illness and hospitalization.

For a full and updated list of COVID-19 related symptoms and variant risks, please visit the CDC website.

Flu complications

Flu complications are very serious. The most common complications in older adults are bronchitis and pneumonia. You shouldn’t ignore severe symptoms that develop while battling the flu. Seek medical attention immediately if you have shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, vomiting or are experiencing mental confusion.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis happens when the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes inflamed. These tubes are what carries air to your lungs, which is why bronchitis is sometimes brushed off as a “chest cold.” Don’t ignore symptoms of bronchitis, as bronchitis can lead to pneumonia.

Symptoms of bronchitis may include:

1. Coughing up yellow, gray or green mucus
2. Fatigue
3. Shortness of breath
4. Fever
5. Chest pains

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs in one or both lungs. If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath or a severe cough, you should be tested for pneumonia. Untreated pneumonia can spread into the bloodstream and cause organ failure. It can also cause lungs to fill with fluid, a condition called pulmonary edema. Don’t ignore severe flu symptoms, as many flu complications can become life-threatening.

Vaccines save lives

The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get your annual flu shot. Flu shots strengthen your immune response and help your body fight off potential illness. Talk with your primary care physician to find out what flu shot option is best for you.

Pneumococcal vaccines are also recommended for those over 65 to protect against pneumococcal diseases like pneumonia and meningitis. These, along with flu shots, are available free of charge to Medicare users starting in 2023 as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.

It is also recommended that all seniors receive the COVID-19 vaccination and boosters as they become available. To learn more about your vaccination options and get the latest information, visit the CDC website.

Conclusion

The flu can be serious for seniors. It’s important to recognize symptoms, receive vaccinations and seek medical attention if symptoms are serious. No one likes being sick. Let’s do our part to stay healthy.

PlanEnroll is a brand operated by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC and used by its affiliated licensed insurance agencies that are certified to sell Medicare products. PlanEnroll is not endorsed by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or any other government agency. Any information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not considered as personalized medical advice. If you believe you have influenza complications, please contact medical professionals.