Last year’s flu season was one of the most devastating in recent history. In fact, last year’s virus resulted in the deaths of approximately 4,000 Americans per week, an astounding number for a sickness that many see as just an annual annoyance. And with indications that the 2018-19 flu season shaping up as much the same, the seriousness of protecting yourself during the flu season cannot be overstated.
In fact, a recent study completed by Rice University indicates that this fall’s flu vaccine – a new formulation for the first time since 2015 – likely will have the same reduced efficacy (about 20 percent) against the dominating circulating strain of influenza A as the vaccine given in 2016 and 2017.
The flu season can be risky for everyone, but seniors are particularly at risk to the dangers of contracting the flu. Aging naturally diminishes the immune system, which means the body is less able to fight off infections and diseases. As a result, if an illness takes root – even in a healthy senior – the conditions can be more problematic.
As a result, most senior living communities start emphasizing flu awareness as soon long before the calendar actually turns to winter. However, many people – including seniors – take a relaxed attitude toward the flu and figure they’re safe just by getting a flu shot and knowing they’ve had the flu in the past and come through it just fine.
However, the danger for seniors posed by the upcoming flu season must be met with every amount of caution and prevention possible. Seniors need to understand the risks and take appropriate measures to protect their health before the full onset of flu season.
Get A Flu Shot
This might seem like a no-brainer but it always bears repeating – get a flu shot! It’s never too early or too late to get a flu shot, and while the effectiveness of this season’s vaccine may be less than optimal, it’s still important to pursue every opportunity to avoid contracting the flu. Fortunately for you, amavida will be offering onsite flu shots through either the pharmacy and/or clinic. Getting a flu shot is fast and easy, and the number one step for all seniors to take.
Keep It Clean
The flu is an equal opportunity infector! It can be spread through the air, person to person, and by touching surfaces such as stair banisters, hallways, rail guards, sink faucets, kitchen countertops, water fountains, and shared spaces. Due to the flu’s highly contagious nature, it’s usually best for seniors to assume that anything in their surroundings that could expose them to the flu likely will.
What does this mean for you? Increase your hand-washing routine – after using the bathroom and after daily interactions and activities. Sure, this may seem like overkill, but everyone knows the saying about an ounce of prevention and it surely rings true here. It’s also a good idea to have a couple bottles of hand sanitizer around the house – and maybe even carry one with you – and try to avoid touching any part of your body until you know your hands are clean.
Get Into Healthy Habits
This may be a bit similar to the previous item, but it’s never a bad idea to reinforce healthy habits. Hand washing is a healthy habit that you should practice all year round, and especially during flu season. Also keep in mind that courtesy is king and to always cover your mouth or nose when you cough or sneeze, and to dispose of any trash (tissues, etc.) immediately. Keeping your home and environs healthy also increases your defenses against the flu.
Avoid People with the Flu
Keeping away from people with the flu is vitally important because the flu bug thrives on person-to-person transmittance. So even if it means missing bowling night or not being able to care for a sick friend, it’s best not to place yourself in a position that could lead to contracting the flu yourself. You don’t have to become a total hermit, but it is best to limit your contact with others – for your sake and theirs – while you’re still showing symptoms.
Keep A Healthy Diet
What you eat and drink during flu season can have a huge impact on your health. There’s nothing that can completely protect you from the flu, but a healthy diet high in vitamin C and other nutrients goes a long way to helping your body protect you from sickness. Plus, staying well hydrated is extremely important during flu season. Stay away from sodas and other sugary drinks. Water is best and juices can help provide added vitamins.
Call Your Doctor
If you believe you’re coming down with the flu, seek help immediately. Over-the-counter products can help, but the fact remains that the flu requires medical attention. As mentioned earlier, the flu quickly can become a serious condition for seniors so medical help at the first sign of it is paramount.
Sure, flu season can make you a little nervous, so knowing what to do (and how to do it) to protect yourself can go a long way to providing peace of mind.