The period from October to May each year is referred to as flu season. Changes in the weather, as well as increased morbidity from respiratory infections, are likely to affect all ages during this period – but can be particularly dangerous for the elderly.

Lower respiratory tract infections are among the most common causes of hospital admissions in the elderly in winter. They are also the fifth most common cause of death. “Although influenza, covid and other viral diseases are now considered common, they are still highly contagious. For people of working age, bed rest, fever control, cough and cold medications, or immune support are often sufficient to treat them. In the elderly, however, they can quickly become severe acute illnesses requiring hospitalisation,” says MUDr. Miriama Šatalová, a doctor at the long-term sick ward of the AGEL Bánovce Hospital. In the elderly, the course of the respiratory infection itself is usually clinically altered and atypical. “Fever is a defence mechanism of the body and it rises when the immunity is working. In the elderly, the elevated temperature is very often absent, only a general severe condition is present, the patient is apathetic, breathing is difficult, falls into unconsciousness, the functions of the organs, including the brain, deteriorate. Then urgent action is needed,” points out. Respiratory diseases in the elderly are risky in terms of the course of the respiratory tract infection itself, but also due to the primary diseases from which the elderly patient suffers.

“Dangerous complications are mainly pneumonia, bacterial superinfections and worsening of chronic diseases – worsening of cardiovascular diseases, asthma, diabetes or immobilization syndrome. Statistically, up to 90% of patients who die from influenza are people over 65 years of age. I therefore consider it very important to educate the elderly so that they know that these diseases are really dangerous for them and how to protect themselves against them. There is also a need for responsible behaviour by family members to not give seniors warnings about sick grandchildren or great-grandchildren, to postpone a visit or party if they are sick,” says the experienced doctor. According to the expert, preventive measures include increasing the overall resistance of the body by hardening, regular exercise, staying in the fresh air, ventilation, increased intake of vitamins and minerals.

“During the flu season, it is also necessary to limit attendance at mass events, and not to forget about thorough hand hygiene after shopping or visiting the doctor. Effective prevention is influenza vaccination, which seniors should receive annually before the start of the flu season, ideally in September. The protective effect of the vaccine takes effect about two weeks after vaccination,” concludes MUDr. Miriama Šatalová.