Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

A Method to Assess Fc-mediated Effector Functions Induced by Influenza Hemagglutinin Specific Antibodies
Published on: February 23, 2018
Long-term immunogenicity of influenza vaccine among the elderly: Risk factors for poor immune response and
Joon Young Song1, Hee Jin Cheong, In Sook Hwang
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
The elderly have been considered as the priority group for influenza vaccination, but their influenza vaccine-induced antibody was believed to decline more rapidly. Long-term immunogenicity of the influenza vaccine among the elderly was evaluated as compared to young adults. Serum hemagglutinin inhibition (HI) titers were determined at pre- and post-vaccination periods (at 1, 6, and 12 months after vaccination). Of the 1018 subjects, 716 (70.3%) were followed up during a 12-month period. Seroprotection rates at 1 month post-vaccination ranged from 70.1% to 90.3% depending on the age group and influenza vaccine virus strain. At 6 months post-vaccination, seroprotection rates for all three strains had declined significantly in adults >or=65 years (P<0.01), but still met the EMEA criteria. Low pre-vaccination HI titer (<1:40) and advanced age were associated with early decline of HI titers, falling below seroprotective levels around 6 months after vaccination.
Related Concept Videos
Vaccinations
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature is...
Vaccines
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution

