It’s the start of flu season, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all individuals 6 months and older be vaccinated annually. Flu can be a serious illness, particularly among young children, older adults and people with certain chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes. A flu infection can carry the risk of serious complications, hospitalization or death, even among otherwise healthy children and adults. An annual vaccination helps to maintain the best protection against the flu.
RVNA is offering two vaccine choices this flu season: a quadrivalent vaccine for ages 6 months and older and a high dose vaccine for ages 65 and older. The CDC does not recommend use of a nasal spray vaccine (flu mist) this year based on data showing poor or relatively low effectiveness from 2013 through 2016. Side effects from a flu shot are rare but may include soreness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given; low-grade fever, headache and muscle ache may also occur.
Seasonal flu disease usually peaks between December and March although it can last as late as May. Since it can take two weeks after vaccination to develop immunity, it’s best for people to get vaccinated before flu viruses begin to spread in the community.
Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited non-profit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety and promotes the highest quality of life. RVNA provides compassionate care to all individuals, whether young or old, through a continuum of care that encompasses health care at home and in the community. RVNA also provides home health aides and companionship through a non-medical subsidiary called HomeCare by RVNA.
Visit RVNA at www.ridgefieldvna.org