Importance of the Seasonal Flu Shot for Seniors
When flu season arises, seniors are particularly vulnerable. That’s why we ensure that each of our residents has a chance to receive the flu shot every year.
We also require that all of our staff members receive a flu vaccination. It’s just one way that we help our residents stay safe.
We want to take a moment to explain why the flu shot for seniors is so important and how they help protect those you love.
Flu Shots for Seniors and Staff at Brunswick Cove
It’s no secret that the flu can be devastating for those who are 65 and older. But why are seniors at such a high risk? It’s because the immune system’s natural defenses don’t function as efficiently as they did when younger.
Those with the following conditions can also develop serious complications from the flu:
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- COPD
- Liver problems
- Lung disease
- Heart problems
- Asthma
- Any illness or treatment that compromises the immune system
Many seniors have at least one of the conditions listed above, and this places them at greater risk.
The flu is also deadly.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 70 to 85 percent of all flu-related deaths occur in those who are 65 years old and older. This age group also accounts for between 50 and 70 percent of flu-related hospitalizations.
Important Information on the Flu Shot for Seniors
Different Types of Flu Vaccinations
One is the “regular” flu vaccination, and there are two other variations that have been specially designed to help the 65 and older age group. These are the high-dose flu vaccine and the adjuvanted flu vaccine.
Remember that those 65 and older should get the actual flu shot, and not a nasal spray vaccine. There are actually three types of flu vaccinations available.
High-Dose Flu Vaccine
Each flu shot has an antigen. This is the inactivated, “dead” virus that prompts your immune response so your body will “learn” how to fight the flu. In the high-dose vaccine, there is four times the amount of antigen as the regular one.
What does that mean? It means there’s a stronger immune response. Clinical trials have shown that this higher dose flu vaccine can result in 24 percent fewer cases of the flu as compared to the standard flu vaccine. This high-dose vaccine has been available since 2009.
Adjuvanted Flu Vaccine
This vaccine has an additive, called MF59 that also creates a stronger immune response. A higher immune response means a decreased likelihood of catching the flu. It was first available in the U.S. during the 2016 to 2017 flu season, according to information from the Centers for Disease Control.
But flu shots aren’t just important for our residents—they’re important for you as well!
Protect Those You Love: Get a Flu Shot
We encourage family members who visit to receive a flu shot. Doing so will reduce the risk of getting the flu and unintentionally passing it along to a loved one.
Don’t Believe Flu Vaccine Myths
No, the flu shot will NOT give you the flu.
There is a lot of misinformation out there about the flu vaccination
If you have questions about the flu shot, we suggest you ask your doctor or visit a reliable source of information like the Centers for Disease Control’s flu education website.
Keeping Your Loved One Safe in a Calm, Nurturing Environment
Brunswick Cove is many things to many people. For some, it represents the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is safe and receiving the care they need.
For others, it means working with physical therapists to learn how to walk again following a hip replacement.
In addition, it also means being able to step back into the role of spouse, son or daughter.
For us, it is a sacred trust. We care for your loved one as if they were our own grandparent or parent. Our friendly staff and exceptional care is at the heart of all we do.
Schedule a virtual tour of our assisted living and memory care community in Winnabow, just a short drive from Leland and Wilmington.