Yes, it’s that time of year again, and there is an overabundance of research and recommendations on the value of vaccinations for seniors in long-term care. In one study, regarding risk factors for Respiratory Syncytial Virus hospitalization for long-term care residents,, it was estimated that rates of RSV-associated hospitalization were 3-9 times higher for adults aged over 65 years living in AL facilities and 3-4 times higher for those living in SNFs!

And back to COVID—it isn’t gone! The FDA approved and granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (2024-2025 formula) to better protect against currently circulating variants. These vaccinations for seniors in long-term care are crucial as the new vaccines have been updated to target the newer variants circulating today.

Why something new? Because the CDC found that although the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine provided protection against SARS-CoV-2 XBB-sublineage strains, these strains are no longer predominant in the United States. The PALTmed association has a “COVID Crusader” website with tons of information COVID Crusaders | PALTmed—jump on and listen in! Bottom line, GET VACCINATED!

Stay well and stay informed!

For more information and tools regarding vaccines, please see HealthCap’s toolkit on vaccines:

Vaccine Toolkit 2024