The University of Iowa is evaluating the effectiveness and safety of a flu vaccine in healthy older adults. Patricia Winokur, MD, principal investigator of the study, talks about the study:
Why is the flu considered a serious illness when an older adult is infected?
I think people forget, but influenza causes about 40,000 deaths in the U.S. in a year, and about 200,000 hospitalizations. Unfortunately, those over 65 make up the lion's share of those who have severe effects from flu. If you look at the effects of the vaccine on preventing these serious events, the influenza vaccine is very effective in reducing the rates of hospitalizations and deaths in those over 65. That's why we so aggressively encourage people to get the vaccine in that age group.
What will the study look at in relationship to the flu?
Every year, the U.S. has struggled to produce enough flu vaccines to vaccinate the U.S. population. Over the past few years, there's been a big push by the U.S. to increase the number of companies that supply influenza vaccines. The current study will compare two flu vaccines. The first vaccine is a flu vaccine that's made by an Australian company licensed for use in the U.S. about one year ago. The second vaccine is a vaccine that's made by a French company and is the standard vaccine that we've been using in the U.S. for decades. The goal of this study is to solidify the data that says the vaccine made by this Australian company is as safe and as effective as the vaccine that's made in France. What this will do is it will allow the Australian vaccine to remain in the U.S. market and help us meet our goals of vaccinating our U.S. population.
Is there a notable difference between the two vaccines you are looking at?
Actually, the two vaccines are very similar. They have the same flu proteins and are manufactured in a very similar manner. Both vaccines are designed to protect people for the upcoming flu season.
Who can participate in the study?
We're looking for folks who are 65 and older, who are in general good health. They can have many of the common diseases we see—hypertension, diabetes—but should be in good general health.
If someone is over the age of 65, but has already received their flu shot for this season, can they still participate in this study?
I'm thrilled to hear that they've gotten their flu shot, they've done a very important thing in protecting their health; but unfortunately, that would not allow them to participate in this particular study. But good for them and keep up the yearly flu vaccine.
What will participants do as part of the study?
There are two face-to-face visits with this study. On the first visit, we explain the study, talk about your medical history, and what medicines you're taking. You'll give blood and then receive the flu vaccine. You come back in three weeks and we'll take blood. In six months we call your simply to see if there have been any major changes in your health over the past few months.
Will participants be charged a fee for receiving the flu shot?
They will not. The participation is free and the vaccine is free and people will be compensated for their time and effort in participating in the study.
Who should people contact if they are interested in participating in the study?
They can call 319-384-7245.
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