Flu Season

Even though we are well into flu season, it is not too late to get a flu vaccination if you have not done so already.  While the flu season is from October to May, most incidences occur in late December to early March.  Doctors recommend getting the vaccination once it becomes available, which is usually sometime in September, but say if you haven’t done it yet, do it now.  The vaccine takes approximately two weeks to work so you would still be protected during the worst of the season. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older.   For this flu season, they advise you get a flu shot, not the nasal spray flu vaccine because of concerns regarding its effectiveness.  Symptoms of the flu include a fever, cough, aches, and fatigue, and among those that get it, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized every year.  Figures on how many people die each year from the flu varies and the CDC reports that “influenza-associated deaths in the United States ranged from a low of 12,000 (during 2011-2012) to a high of 56,000 (during 2012-2013).” 

We know that people are contagious for up to a day before they begin to experience any symptoms, which is why the disease is so easily spread.  However at MorningStar, we take steps to protect the health of our residents.  Since complete containment of the illness is next to impossible, especially in community living, we strongly urge our resident’s families to have their loved one immunized.   

In addition we advise that when visiting and spending time with a senior, that you practice good hygiene habits such as avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick, or if it is you, keep your distance.  Also stay home if you are sick, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. 

Morningstar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.        

 

Source: cdc.gov/flu/pdf/matte/nivw-vaccination.pdf