The Dangers of Influenza and Benefits of Vaccination in Adults with Chronic Health Conditions

Experts stress the importance of protecting adults with chronic health conditions from influenza

The recommendations in this Call to Action are based on discussions at a July 2018 Roundtable convened by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). The multidisciplinary group of subject matter experts gathered to discuss the underrecognized burden of influenza (flu) on adults with chronic health conditions, the connection between inflammation caused by influenza, and the resulting exacerbation of common chronic health conditions. Discussions focused on recommendations and strategies to protect vulnerable populations by emphasizing the benefits of flu vaccination to overall health, mitigation of illness severity and flu-related complications, and improved patient outcomes.

Overview Influenza (flu) is a serious health concern in adults with certain chronic health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes.

These individuals are at increased risk of flu-related complications and exacerbation of underlying disease, even when the condition is well-controlled, due to the effects of flu-related inflammation that may occur long after acute infection. Unfortunately, flu vaccination coverage rates remain suboptimal in adults, partly due to a lack of confidence in vaccine efficacy. However, strong evidence exists to support the benefits of flu vaccination in mitigating disease severity, reducing hospitalization rates, and disrupting viral transmission. There is an urgent need to raise awareness of both the dangers of influenza infection and the benefits of vaccination in adults with chronic health conditions.

Connection Between Influenza and Exacerbation of Chronic Health Conditions

Nearly 50 percent of US adults age 45-64 years1 have two or more chronic health conditions (Figure 1).2,3 As the US population ages, the proportion of adults with chronic health conditions will likely rise, as the prevalence of many chronic health conditions increases with age.3,4 The high proportion of adults with chronic health conditions is of particular concern due to the potentially serious interaction between influenza virus and certain chronic health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes. Flu can exacerbate these conditions and may increase the risk of persistent catastrophic disability.

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