High-dose flu vaccine linked to lower Alzheimer’s risk in older adults
Researchers at UTHealth Houston found a high-dose flu shot reduced Alzheimer's risk by nearly 55 percent for adults over 65.
Study findings published in Neurology
Scientists analyzed data from nearly 200,000 adults ages 65 and older to reach this conclusion. The study was led by Paul Schulz, MD, a professor of neurology at McGovern Medical School. Adults receiving the high-dose influenza vaccine showed significantly better outcomes than those with standard doses. This new research builds on a 2022 investigation that first linked any flu vaccination to reduced risk.
CDC recommends stronger shots for seniors
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises high-dose vaccines because immune systems weaken with age. In 2025, more than 7 million Americans over 65 lived with Alzheimer's disease. That number represents approximately one in nine people in that specific age group today. Officials project this figure will double by the year 2050 if trends continue.
Conversation sparked new vaccine research
Public health officials asked Schulz to discuss his earlier findings regarding vaccine dosage differences. The team investigated whether different doses might change Alzheimer's risk levels for seniors. Schulz noted he was initially confused when officials questioned if dosage mattered at all. The discovery emerged from an unexpected dialogue between a physician and local public health leaders.
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