Fergus Falls, MN) Lake Region Healthcare is encouraging early immunizations against influenza this year based on a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). According to the CDC Study, early treatment of flu-hospitalized people 65 and older with flu antiviral medications cuts the duration of their hospital stay and reduces their risk of needing extended care after discharge. The study is the first to look at the benefits of early antiviral treatment on preventing the need for extended care in community-dwelling flu-hospitalized people 65 and older. Because people 65 and older are at high risk of serious flu complications, CDC recommends that they be treated for flu with influenza antiviral medications as early as possible because these drugs work best when started early.
“Vaccination remains the single most effective preventive measure available against influenza for all ages and can prevent serious illness and death. High rates of vaccination among nurses and health care workers have been linked to improved patient outcomes, reduced absenteeism, and reduced influenza infection among staff,” according to LRH employee health nurse Brittany Nelson.
Because of this, an internal organization-wide flu fight is aimed at vaccinating 90% of Lake Region Healthcare employees. “We take the health and safety of both our staff and our patients extremely seriously,” said CEO Larry Schulz. “The 90% goal is a reflection of our commitment to improving the health of our entire community,” he added.
LRH is proactive about making the flu vaccine easily available to each and every staff member and educating them about the benefits to them, their families and their patients. In addition, flu clinics for the general public are held to make it easy for everyone to “winterize” their immune systems with a flu shot.
Public flu clinics are scheduled for the following dates and times, or you can request one from your primary care provider.
- Fergus Falls at the Cancer Center Conference Room
Thursday, September 24 7:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday, October 1 7:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday, October 8 7:30am – 6:00pm
Wednesday, September 30 9:00am – 11:00am
Wednesday, October 14 1:00pm – 4:30pm
Wednesday, October 14 8:30am – 4:00pm
Wednesday, October 21 8:30am – 12:30pm
While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine is designed to protect against the main flu strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the upcoming flu season. Getting the flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available each year is always a good idea, and the protection you get from vaccination will last throughout the flu season.
Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. More information on the flu vaccine can be found at www.flu.gov.
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About Lake Region Healthcare
Lake Region Healthcare is living out its vision to be Minnesota's preeminent regional healthcare partner. With over 80 medical staff and over 900 employees, its team is dedicated to serving its patients and community with integrity, teamwork, compassion and excellence. For more information about Lake Region Healthcare, visit www.lrhc.org. # # #