Immunosenescence and Vaccinations in the Elderly

With increasing age, infection-induced morbidity and mortality rises. At the same time, the protective capacity of the immune system declines. This phenomenon is known as immunosenescence. It concerns all parts of the immune system and leads to a decline of cellular and humoral immune defense. As a consequence, the ability to resist infections and the immune response to vaccinations could be impaired. In order to protect senior citizens effectively against infections with dangerous pathogens like influenza viruses or pneumococci, new immunisation strategies, e.g. with shortened intervals between vaccinations, new vaccines or new vaccination techniques are required. Intradermal vaccines seem to be a promising approach, for instance. At the same time the acceptance of vaccination ought to be increased in the senior age group. Physicians, especially general practitioners play an important role because of their decisive effect on the willingness of the population to get vaccinated.