Question

How would you go about assessing and planning for the coming influenza season? For older adults

Answer 1

Ans) Influenza, an annual epidemic in the U.S. infects the respiratory system creates a significant increase in hospitalizations and an rise in the death rates from pneumonia and cardiovascular disease.

- According to the CDC, people aged 65 and older are at a greater risk for serious complications from the flu. This is because the immune system typically weakens with age.

- Flu infection can also worsen long-term health problems like heart disease, lung disease, and asthma.

- Flu season lasts through spring peaking between late December & early management.

Complications:

- After death, the most serious complication of influenza is staphylococcal pneumonia.

Assessment:

- First step to rule out for early planning & management.

- Sign & Symptoms:

Headache, fever with chills, sore throat, nausea/ vomiting, muscle ache, fatigue, stuffy nose.

Planning:

Prevention is better than cure so planning is necessary for coming influenza season for older adults.

- After assessment, it is necessary for it's through management. 3 C's to include:

1. Cover: Cover mouth & nose during coughing & sneezing. If there is no tissue so use cough etiquette while sneezing & coughing over sleeves.
2. Clean: Frequently wash hands with soap & water. Seven steps of hand washing.
3. Contain: Contain germs by staying at home when you are sick to avoid spread of germs.

- Administration of annual influenza vaccination:

Most effective way for prevention.

As Immune system declines especially in older adults.

• High dose vaccines contain 4X more antigen than standard dose vaccines.
• Adjuvanted flu vaccines contain an ingredient that helps create stronger immune response.
• Immune system will begin to synthesize and release IgM from B cells
• Mild reactions such as soreness, headaches and fever are common side effects of the flu vaccine.

- Keep immune system strong with proper nutrition, exercise and plenty of water.