Vaccines for the Prevention of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Older Adults

Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2023 Mar;37(1):27-45. doi: 10.1016/j.idc.2022.11.002. Epub 2022 Nov 4.

Abstract

Institutionalized and community-dwelling older adults have been greatly impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with increased morbidity and mortality. The advent of vaccines and their widespread use in this population has brought about a dramatic turnaround in COVID-19 outcomes. The immunogenicity and effectiveness of the various vaccine options worldwide are discussed. Optimization of vaccine usage will still be important to maximize protection due to reduced initial immunity, development of variant strains, and fading of immunity over time. There are also lessons learned specific to older populations for future pandemics of novel pathogens.

Keywords: Aging; COVID-19 vaccine; Geriatric; Immunogenicity; Older adults; Vaccine effectiveness.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccines*

Substances

  • Vaccines