The flu season can start as early as the end of August and last through April, so now is the time to educate staff on the importance of the influenza vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have available an influenza toolkit with resources and information for long-term care employers, as well as the option to sign up for a weekly email update about seasonal flu.
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus and is a serious threat for older adults. The flu can spread to others by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to six feet away, or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. A person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
Receiving a flu vaccination protects not only the individual, but also family members, co-workers and patients in a health care setting.
