Scenario: Scheduled risk assessment visit at assisted living center; call from Executive Director “We are dropping like flies, can we reschedule?” Yep, the dreaded flu has hit with a vengeance! Per the CDC more than 1,300 people have already died from conditions worsened by the flu so far this season and there have been at least 2.6 million flu illnesses and 23,000 flu-related hospitalizations! Those numbers are staggering! So what can we do to help prevent the spread of flu in our communities and in our personal homes?
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Oh, did I say wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer?
- I guess I already said that, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Yes, redundant, old school, EFFECTIVE! Studies have shown that handwashing is the first and most important step in preventing the spread of infections including influenza flu!
Okay, so we get the flu in our center, it is important that the physicians/medical director be involved as soon as the first signs and symptoms of flu are identified. Why? The CDC recommends the use of anti-viral medications as early treatment may reduce symptoms and speed recovery. Also, ensure that staff members affected by the flu STAY HOME! Sure, the residents need care but they don’t need the flu, remember, the frail, elderly residents we care for are at highest risk for negative outcomes including death if the flu hits. Do what we can to keep them safe and did I mention “WASH YOUR HANDS”?
Follow this link to read the CDC recommendations for the prevention of flu.