Lowering the age for routine influenza vaccination to 50 years: AAFP leadsthe nation in influenza vaccine policy

The American Academy of Family Physicians now recommends that all persons 5 0 years of age and older receive an annual influenza vaccination, because t he rates of morbidity and mortality associated with influenza are high and vaccination is cost-effective. Reasons for lowering the recommended age for routine vaccination from 65 to 50 years of age include reductions in offic e visits, hospitalizations, time taken off work and associated costs. In wo rking adults 18 to 64 years of age, the cost savings were estimated at $46. 85 per person vaccinated. Furthermore, the fatality rate from influenza beg ins to rise at age 45 and is highest in persons with multiple chronic medic al conditions. As in the past, recommendations target persons at high risk for complications, such as those with cardiac disease, lung disease and dia betes, as well as health care workers and residents of nursing homes. Sever e allergy to eggs is a contraindication to influenza vaccination.