Vitalia Active Adult Community – North Royalton Encourages Influenza Vaccinations

Remember the flu? Considering that we’ve been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020, it’s understandable if you’ve put influenza on your mental back burner.

The flu has not only been out of mind, but it’s also been largely out of sight. Between September 2020 and August 2021, there were a little over 2,000 cases of influenza in the US, according to the CDC. In a typical flu season, the US sees more than 200,000 cases in that same time frame. This decline was largely due to protective measures that were taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

While that’s positive news, last year’s hiatus from the flu has many experts concerned about what this year might bring. With protective measures being more relaxed and the lack of exposure to the flu during last season, we might be more susceptible to the virus when it returns. Older adults may be especially at risk.

At Vitalia Active Adult Community – North Royalton, we all play a vital role in preventing the spread of influenza. The best way to protect yourself and prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. While all age groups over six months remain priorities for vaccination, additional emphasis this flu season will be on adults at higher risk from COVID-19 complications. This includes adults with underlying illnesses and those considered to be immunocompromised.

It’s important for residents to receive the flu vaccine due to the increased risk of flu associated with severe illness in the older adult population. The flu can be serious for everyone but for people over the age of 65, the risk of complications and hospitalization related to the flu is very high.

Staff members can inspire our residents to get their flu vaccine by getting the vaccine themselves. If the residents see staff doing their part and getting the vaccine, that may encourage them to get the vaccine as well.

We can all help prevent the spread of the flu by always wearing our masks properly and disinfecting our workstations and commonly touched surfaces. It is also so important to wash our hands before and after assisting a resident.

To promote our flu clinic and increase participation from our staff and residents, I am personally calling families and talking to residents individually to express the importance of getting vaccinated. I am emphasizing the convenience of being able to get vaccinated here in the community.

Every one of us plays a vital role in preventing the spread of influenza. To offer protection to our residents in the most convenient manner, communities have begun planning their Annual Flu Vaccine Clinics. We are encouraging all eligible individuals to receive this year’s preventive vaccination. If you are unsure if you should receive the vaccine, please consult with your physician or healthcare provider.