Flu Vaccinations – Their Importance to Seniors & the Benefits of Acting Early

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posted by Ted Ryan on October 03, 2012

As the busy holiday season approaches, so does the flu season. This makes now a great time for an annual flu shot – before your schedule fills up and before the flu has the opportunity to attack. After getting the vaccination, it takes two weeks to start protecting you, so it’s wise to act before the flu season fully kicks in.

Getting a flu vaccine is simple and the most important thing you can do to prevent the flu. As the flu virus changes from season to season, the vaccine is updated accordingly. Also, remember to wash your hands often.

Vaccinations are especially important for seniors 65 years of age and older. Human immune defenses weaken with age, making seniors among those with the highest risk for developing serious flu complications.

To address this risk, seniors have two vaccination options. In addition to the standard flu shot, a newer high-dose flu vaccine has been designed specifically for those 65 years of age and older. This higher dose aims to give seniors a better immune response and therefore better protection against the flu.

Seniors Home Care recommends that all of our caregivers, clients and their families make flu vaccinations a high priority. To provide the best home health care for others, one must take precautions and care for themself. It will be easier to enjoy holiday events and gatherings knowing that you have taken the single best step to protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu. Also remember that, while early immunization is most effective, it is never too late to arrange for vaccination either. The flu season usually peaks in January and February and can last into May.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations across the St. Louis area. To find one near you, visit www.flu.gov and use the Flu Vaccine Finder. The Visiting Nurse Association of St. Louis also offers vaccination clinics and events that can be found at www.vnastl.com.
 

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