NCT02200276 · Johns Hopkins University
Influenza Immunization in Adults Over Age 75
What this study is about
The immune system is the part of the body that protects against infection. The immune system often doesn't work as effectively as people get older. This research is being done to find out how the immune systems in older people who are over age 75 respond to influenza vaccine (flu shot).
View original scientific description
The immune system is the part of the body that protects against infection. The immune system often doesn't work as effectively as people get older. This research is being done to find out how the immune systems in older people who are over age 75 respond to influenza vaccine (flu shot). We also want to find out if chronic cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, a common virus infection in older persons affects the immune response in people older than 75 years of age who receive a flu shot. The Flu Shot is a vaccine approved for the prevention of influenza ("Flu") infections and is recommended every year for all persons 50 years and older. People who are older than 75 years of age are considered healthy or frail may join. A total of 1025 persons will be participating in this study. In order to determine if you are qualified for the study, we would ask you to answer a few questions over the phone that will take approximately 5 minutes. If you qualify and agree to proceed, you will be asked to come to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center or, if you are unable to come to Bayview, one of our staff can visit you at your home. During that visit we obtain consent, review your medical history, and measure your vital signs, walking speed and grip strength. We will also administer a few brief questionnaires and collect urine and blood samples. We will then give you the Influenza vaccine for free. 7 days post receiving your Influenza Vaccine we will collect a small blood sample for further immune system testing. also, you will be asked to complete a 12-question survey which will assess your symptoms over the past 7 days (post receiving the Influenza vaccine). Also 4 weeks post receiving your Influenza vaccine you will be asked to complete a third visit that will include follow up health questionnaires and an influenza symptoms assessment questionnaire and vital signs. A third blood draw will be collected (approximately 10 teaspoons) to measure immune responses to the influenza vaccine. In addition, you will receive your test result (CBC/w/Diff.) from visit #1. Throughout the influenza study season, we will call you once a week to ask about your general health and any Flu-like symptoms. These calls will be made throughout the Flu season which typically lasts through May. If you begin to have any influenza like symptoms at any time during the study, we ask that you call our office to report these symptoms so that we may perform vital signs, nasal swab to confirm influenza, and a fourth blood draw to look at the immune response and protection of influenza vaccine.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults over age 75 years
Exclusion criteria
- Allergies to egg or vaccine
- Active malignancies
- On radiation or chemotherapy
- Active systemic inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis
- Acute exacerbation of chronic cardiopulmonary conditions including decompensated CHF or COPD
- Taking oral steroids (such as prednisone) or immune modulating drugs (such as methotrexate).
- Lacking the capacity to consent (individuals who do not understand what Flu shot is or need someone else to decide if s/he should get the Flu shot)
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations