BANGKOK, Thailand – Health experts are warning older adults to take extra precautions against influenza during the rainy season, with people aged 60 and above who have chronic illnesses facing a higher risk of severe infection and complications.
Professor Dr. Sasisophin Kiatburanakul, an infectious disease specialist and vice president of the Infectious Disease Association of Thailand, said influenza can cause far more than fever and body aches among older adults. The infection can lead to serious complications including pneumonia, heart failure and prolonged hospitalization, particularly among people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic lung disease.
According to health statistics cited by experts, more than one million influenza cases were recorded nationwide in 2025. During the first half of 2026, more than 200,000 cases had been reported, with 25 deaths.
Dr. Sasisophin said annual influenza vaccination is one of the most important preventive measures because influenza viruses continually mutate and immunity can decline over time. Vaccination before or during the rainy season gives the body time to build immunity and may help reduce both the risk of infection and the severity of illness. She also recommended combining vaccination with other precautions, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently and avoiding crowded places.
For older adults, however, standard-dose influenza vaccines may produce a weaker immune response because the immune system naturally becomes less responsive with age. This has led to the development of high-dose influenza vaccines, specifically designed for people aged 60 and above.
High-dose vaccines contain four times the antigen found in standard-dose vaccines, helping stimulate a stronger immune response in older adults. Clinical studies cited by the experts found that high-dose influenza vaccination was associated with a 24.22% greater reduction in influenza infections compared with standard-dose vaccines. It was also associated with a 31.93% reduction in hospitalization from influenza, a 6.6% reduction in hospitalization from cardiovascular disease and a 21.3% reduction in hospitalization from heart failure. The Infectious Disease Association of Thailand recommends considering high-dose influenza vaccines for adults aged 60 and above.
Associate Professor Dr. Sira Korpaisarn, an endocrinologist specializing in metabolic diseases, said influenza during the rainy season should not be regarded simply as a routine respiratory infection.
The virus can contribute to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease and pneumonia, particularly among older adults and people with chronic conditions.
He said several types of influenza vaccines are available and the appropriate option depends on each person’s age and health condition. Older adults with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes should consult a doctor about the most suitable form of protection.
Experts stressed that influenza prevention should begin before infection occurs, particularly among older adults and people with underlying health conditions. Appropriate vaccination and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infection, lessen disease severity and prevent potentially serious complications.
Preparing in advance can also help protect the health and quality of life of older family members while reducing pressure on the healthcare system during the influenza season.
