A meta-analysis of effectiveness of influenza vaccine in persons aged 65 years and over living in the community

Aim: To estimate the effectiveness of inactivated influenza vaccine in persons aged 65 years and over living in the community. Scope: A meta-analysis of studies selected using predetermined criteria without language restriction. Conclusion: Influenza vaccine was effective in reducing influenza-like illness by 35% (95% confidence interval (CI) 19-47%), hospitalization for pneumonia and influenza by 33% (CI 27-38%), mortality following hospitalization for pneumonia and influenza by 47% (CI 25-62%); and mortality from all causes by 50% (CI 45-56%). (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.