Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, sometimes resulting in hospitalization or death. The elderly, young children and people with other health conditions are at high risk of contracting the flu.
The best way to prevent flu is by getting vaccinated each year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months get an annual flu vaccination. For individuals working in long-term care environments, this is especially important. Some people, such as those 65 years and older, children younger than 5 years, pregnant women and people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease, are at high risk of experiencing serious complications from flu.
Health care workers who care for or live with people who are more at risk for influenza related complications should get vaccinated annually. According to the CDC, flu vaccination coverage was highest among health care personnel working in hospitals (91.9%). Flu vaccination coverage continues to be lower among health care personnel working in long-term care settings (67.4%).
Guardian Pharmacy Atlanta hopes to raise awareness and help customers in long-term care communities get vaccinated. We began our vaccination season in late September and we will continue to offer vaccination to both residents and staff throughout the flu season. If you would like more information about our vaccination program, please call the pharmacy at 770-635-3301.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/healthcareworkers.
