Has Your Elderly Parent Had Their Flu Shot Yet? How About You?

Most doctors recommend getting a flu shot before November 1st. If you or your dad hasn’t, it’s not too late. There are very good reasons to make sure your dad is protected against the flu. It’s equally important to consider the risk of you spreading it to your dad if you don’t get a flu shot. Consider these facts.

1 out of 4 Cases of the Flu Hit Before January

While you might be tempted to hold off and see if it’s going to be a bad flu season, you do need to remember that about 25 percent of flu cases happen before January. You might be okay waiting. It’s a gamble, however. It’s best to get the shot while it’s readily available and you have time to build up immunities to the vaccination.

The Flu Can Be Deadly

The flu is a respiratory virus. It can worsen. In some cases, the flu progresses into pneumonia. It can also lead to sepsis. In sepsis, the body’s response to an infection like pneumonia or the flu becomes excessive and can damage organs and tissue. Sepsis can be deadly in people with weakened immunities and those with chronic health issues.

Flu Shots Are Not a Guarantee

You can get the flu shot and still get the flu. First, those who make flu vaccines need to guess at what viruses will be active in the upcoming season. Second, it can be days before someone who is infected shows symptoms. You can be exposed without knowing it and get your flu shot too late for your body to build up immunities.

If you get the flu, you could pass it to your parents. The elderly often have a slower immune response. While you might quickly fight off the flu virus, it may not be as easy for your parent. If you’re both vaccinated, it reduces the risk of your mom or dad contracting it.

If you have the flu, you should avoid going to see your dad while you’re contagious. Take the time you need to heal by hiring respite care services. If he is the one with the flu, make sure he has supportive elderly care services. Caregivers can run errands, cook his meals, and make sure he has plenty of tea and water to drink during the day. Call an elderly care agency to get started.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/rr/rr6703a1.htm?s_cid=rr6703a1_w

If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in South River, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care of New Brunswick today. Call (732) 607-8870.