Don't Let the Flu Catch You! - Philadelphia Protestant Home
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Don’t Let the Flu Catch You!

Posted on: Sep 09, 2015

By Eileen Bratton, PPh Senior Director of Skilled Nursing & Infectious Control

Flu vaccine

It’s that time of the year again, no I am not referring to Christmas, I mean “Flu Season”. While most flu activity occurs from October to May, the flu virus is detected year round. As you may know, Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the Influenza virus. It can be a mild to a more severe illness, the best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. The symptoms of Influenza are fever, although not everyone with the flu will have a fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle or body aches, headache and fatigue. Most people will recover in a few days to two weeks. Those with multiple health issues may have a more difficult time in the recovery process and are at risk of developing pneumonia, sinus or ear infections. If diagnosed early, antiviral medication is available, to help decrease the severity of the flu. Otherwise, symptomatic treatment is recommended. That means, fluids to maintain good hydration and tylenol or ibuprofen for fever and aches, make sure to get plenty of rest. Since the flu is very contagious, one should stay home from work when they have the flu or flu-like symptoms, especially during flu season.

The flu is unpredictable and how severe it is can vary widely from one season to the next and that is dependent on; what flu virus is spreading, how available the vaccine is, how many people receive the vaccine and, how well the vaccine matches the flu virus that is causing the illness. Many people make the decision not to be vaccinated because they feel they will then get the flu, that is a myth. Young children and adults over age 65 should receive the Influenza annually. Healthcare workers, especially in long term care/personal care communities, should all be vaccinated. We should all “do what it takes” to keep everyone happy and healthy this flu season. So, roll up your sleeve and take one for the team!

What Residents Say

"In my nine years at PPH, I’ve grown to like it very much. At first, I felt like a stranger and then as I began to talk to people, we increasingly became good friends. A way to meet people is to join clubs. I’m now part of the PPH Auxiliary. I love helping with their flea markets because you never know what you can find. Recently, I’ve joined an evening quilting class. I love that I can continue to enjoy my life outside of PPH while experiencing the offers here.…especially the pool! Everything is just so convenient.

– Lucille Hite, Independent Living resident

What Families Say

"My mom is sooo happy at PPH, I can’t even describe it in strong enough words. She’s met so many new friends and these ladies do EVERYTHING together! She sees Dad every day in Pathways, but can have her life too. She’s gone to so many activities and I think I’ve already been to Scoops with her at least 15 times. She loves the dining room and Bistro too. My sister, Ilene, and I are so delighted that Mom is happy.......Wow, it feels like Mom’s been there about 2 years—but it’s only 2 months!! That’s how comfortable and natural it feels for her – and for all of us.

– Rhonda Frenkel, daughter of resident Bernice Segal

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