Flu season is right around the corner, and at this time no one can accurately predict if the season will be mild or major. Now is the time to get your assisted living or personal care community residents and staff vaccinated to protect them from the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of six months gets vaccinated yearly, especially the elderly population. People over age 65 are at high risk for complications from influenza, including death. Last flu season was especially severe for the elderly and resulted in a large number of hospitalizations and deaths.
It is best to get vaccinated as soon as it becomes available, preferably October. The more we are protected against the flu before the season begins, the less severe it will be. Flu season can last until May, with the highest risk of illness being December through February.
There are both trivalent (protects against three flu virus strains) and quadrivalent (protects against four flu virus strains) vaccines. There is also a new jet injector vaccine, Afluria, which is a needleless system recommended for those ages 18-64. For people 65 years and older, Fluzone High Dose Vaccine, an IM shot, is recommended. This trivalent, high dose vaccine works best for the elderly and results in a stronger immune response. Today, no increases in side effects have been associated with this vaccine.
Guardian Pharmacy Atlanta is here to help our communities stay flu free this season. If you would like to schedule a vaccination clinic, please contact Matt Hopp or Tim Williams at 770-635-3301. We will be happy to assist you.