The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is committed to helping seniors access crucial medical and social services, especially with the persistent threats posed by influenza and COVID-19. We had a chance to discuss these pressing issues and gain insights on how to better support our older population.
**Are influenza and COVID-19 still significant threats to public health?**
Absolutely. Influenza and COVID-19 remain serious health risks, leading to thousands of hospitalizations and deaths each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) projects that from October 1, 2023, to June 1, 2024, there will be around 35 million cases of influenza, resulting in approximately 390,000 hospitalizations and 24,000 deaths. During this same period, around 44,000 deaths in the U.S. are expected due to COVID-19.
**Why do influenza and COVID-19 vaccines need to be updated more frequently than others?**
Viruses are constantly changing through mutations, which can help them evade our immune systems and the protection offered by vaccines. These mutations make it easier for both influenza and COVID-19 viruses to spread and replicate quickly. Consequently, vaccines must be updated regularly. The CDC recommends that everyone aged six months and older get the updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines every fall, regardless of their past vaccination history.
**Why are older adults more susceptible to influenza or COVID-19?**
As people age, their immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder for them to fend off infections and illnesses. Many seniors also have chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory issues, which can intensify the impact of influenza or COVID-19. Because of this, they face a higher risk of severe complications and often take longer to recover due to diminished healing capabilities.
Infectious disease experts stress the importance of prioritizing vaccinations for seniors aged 65 and older or those with chronic conditions. It’s also vital for individuals who have close contact with these seniors to get vaccinated to help protect their loved ones. Making the annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations a routine part of our health management is essential.
**If you have any further questions regarding Medicare, Medicaid, the ACA health insurance marketplace, Social Security retirement benefits, supplemental security income, or vaccinations, please reach out to NAPCA through the following methods:**
Phone: (Mandarin) 1-800-683-7427, (Cantonese) 1-800-582-4218, (English) 1-800-336-2722
Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address: NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101
As a nonprofit organization, NAPCA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for Asian American and Pacific Islander seniors and their families. We operate the NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, offering multilingual services in Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, and English for seniors and their caregivers.
