Influenza (flu) infection increases the risk for disability, falls, and broken bones in older adults. We have employed a preclinical model to examine the impact of flu on muscle function, which has a direct impact on fall risk. In mice, flu causes mobility and strength impairments with induction of inflammatory and muscle degradation genes that are increased and prolonged with aging. To determine if vaccination could reduce flu-induced muscle decrements, mice were vaccinated with flu nucleoprotein, infected, and muscle parameters were measured. Vaccination of aged mice resulted in significant protection from functional decrements, muscle gene expressions alterations, and morphological damage. Vaccination also improved protection from lung localized and systemic inflammation in aged mice. Despite documented decreased vaccine efficacy with aging, vaccination still provided partial protection to aged mice and represents a potential strategy to prevent flu-induced disability. These findings provide translational insight on ways to reduce flu-induced disability with aging. Graphical abstract .
Keywords: Immunity; Inflammation; Influenza; Skeletal muscle; Vaccination.