Hudson Grande Senior Living 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 Hudson Grande Senior Living, 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 is important for our residents to receive the flu shot. The vaccination has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and even the risk of flu-related death. While some people who get a flu vaccine may still get sick, flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce the severity of illness.

To encourage our residents and staff to get their annual flu shot we will continue to give information about how we can stay healthy. With less illness there is less quarantine and isolation, which means we can have more active engagement and events in the community.   

The best ways to help prevent the flu and stop the spread is to wash our hands frequently and continue to be vaccination compliant.

I have incorporated our flu clinic into our Wellness Wednesday to get full participation. Our residents look forward to every Wellness Wednesday. We will also have vendors present that day.

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.