New research shows flu shots may prevent more than just the flu, and they could help you keep your memory later in life.
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Two studies were presented at the International Alzheimer's Conference.
SEE ALSO: Doctors urge people to get flu vaccine as coronavirus pandemic carries on
Doctors urge people to get flu vaccine as COVID-19 pandemic carries on
They show yearly flu vaccines could help prevent viral infections.
It's those infections that inflame pathways, triggering memory decline.
The study suggests the following:
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- At least one flu vaccination was associated with a 17% reduction in Alzheimer's incidence. More frequent flu vaccination was associated with another 13% reduction in Alzheimer's incidence.
- Vaccination against pneumonia between ages 65 and 75 reduced Alzheimer's risk by up to 40% depending on individual genes.
- Individuals with dementia have a higher risk of dying (6-fold) after infections than those without dementia (3-fold).
The study shows the best benefits were seen in people who started getting flu shots at an early age.
You can read more details on the studies at alz.org.
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