Influenza vaccination in old age.

Influenza is responsible for at least 3000-4000 deaths per year in the UK. During epidemics, death rates from pneumonia and influenza are much higher in elderly than younger people. With vaccination, the substantial medical and economic costs associated with influenza epidemics can be avoided. Countries with blanket vaccination have seen major reductions in morbidity and mortality. The vaccine is safe and effective in elderly people. Vaccination programmes for health-care workers who have contact with elderly people have also been shown to be effective in reducing deaths from influenza among this group.