The value of influenza and pneumococcal vaccines in the elderly.

Influenza and pneumococcal vaccines have been available for decades and have repeatedly been shown to be efficacious in healthy adults. However, for both vaccines, efficacy in high risk populations and older individuals does not seem to be as great, leading to reluctance to use them as recommended. Recent observational studies in older individuals have confirmed and quantified the effectiveness of the 2 vaccines in situations of actual use. Economic data indicate that under realistic situations they are likely to reduce costs for healthcare systems. Societal benefits are now also established. While it may be useful to confirm the cost savings in additional systems of healthcare, the current emphasis should be to devise strategies to increase use of the vaccines.