Sanofi high-dose influenza vaccine reduces hospitalization risks in older adults
The FLUNITY-HD study demonstrates that Sanofi’s high-dose influenza vaccine offers superior protection against hospitalizations compared to standard-dose vaccines in adults aged 65 and older.
Data from the FLUNITY-HD study, published in The Lancet, indicates that Sanofi's Efluelda (branded as Fluzone High-Dose in North America) significantly reduces hospitalization risks for the elderly. The study, which observed approximately 466,000 participants across Denmark and Spain, compared the effectiveness of the high-dose vaccine against standard-dose alternatives.
Findings show a 31.9% reduction in laboratory-confirmed influenza hospitalizations for those receiving the high-dose vaccine. The data also confirmed a lower incidence of hospitalizations related to pneumonia, cardio-respiratory events, and all-cause medical admissions. According to the research, one hospitalization could be averted for every 515 patients vaccinated with the high-dose formula compared to the standard version.
Chief investigator Professor Tor Biering-Sørensen noted that the study’s design provides critical evidence for future public health strategies. The results reinforce the rationale for using higher antigen doses in populations with declining immune systems, who account for the majority of flu-related hospitalizations.
Sanofi highlighted that the findings are supported by 15 years of clinical evidence. The company suggests that reducing flu-related complications could alleviate burdens on healthcare systems and caregivers, while helping older adults maintain their quality of life.