Immune System Aging Reduces Vaccine Effectiveness in Older Adults

Complex changes in both innate and adaptive immunity occur as people age, leading to higher rates and greater severity of infections among older adults. Chronic, sub‑clinical inflammation also rises, promoting age‑related diseases and potentially contributing to autoimmunity.

Age‑related immune alterations influence the development, growth and metastasis of malignant tumors. While vaccinations remain a key preventive measure for maintaining health in older populations, coverage rates for all recommended vaccines are well below target levels. Recent decades have seen significant progress in developing optimized vaccines tailored for the elderly, yet uptake remains insufficient.

The situation is highlighted in Austria, where the described immunosenescence challenges are particularly relevant for public‑health planning and vaccine strategy.