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.