Only 60 Percent of U.S. Seniors Got Flu Shots This Season, Survey Says

Clover Health's December Health Flu Shot Monitor found only about 60 percent of U.S. seniors have gotten a flu shot this season, reports United Press International . In comparison, only 41 percent of seniors reportedly received flu shots in November. According to Clover, Medicare Advantage has been discussing the importance of seniors getting flu shots, while AARP estimated that more than 12,000 people died during the 2017 flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also noted fewer people traditionally get flu shots after November. "In recent years, for example, it's estimated that between about 70 percent and 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older and between 50 percent and 70 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred among people in that age group," the agency said. The CDC cited the existence of different flu vaccines for people older than 65, allowing for consideration of health conditions in each person receiving the vaccine. "While we are heartened by the improvement from last month's findings, it is well below the 100 percent level where it needs to be," said Clover's Kumar Dharmarajan. "As it gets colder and people spend more time indoors, it is crucial that seniors get vaccinated to prevent the spread of infection in their communities."