Available influenza vaccines are generally very effective, but their success rate takes a tumble when they are used in the elderly. This is a serious failing, as elderly patients have the highest risk of morbidity and mortality from influenza infection. Accordingly, researchers are looking for new ways to improve the antigenicity of influenza vaccines in this subpopulation. The adjuvant MF-59 may be the answer, according to the results of a recent meta-analysis involving approximately 2000 patients. The study was presented at the 3rd European Conference on Vaccinology [Berlin, Germany; October 1996].