At Cedar Mountain Commons, a senior assisted living facility in Newington, flu season is a common worry.
This season is no exception, especially given the severity of the nation’s flu outbreak this year. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, about one in every 13 emergency room visits across the nation right now is related to the flu. Flu-related deaths and hospitalizations disproportionately affect children and seniors.
That’s a good reason Cedar Mountain Commons resident Peggy Gorman, 85, takes extra precautions, as seen in a CBS Weekend News report.
“When I see someone is coughing or sneezing, I will automatically not sit near that person,” she said.
She’s even willing to cancel family visits.
“If they are sneezing or coughing, I say please don’t come.”
Cedar Mountain Commons’ protocols call for frequent disinfecting of surfaces, encouraging vaccinations, and isolating those with flu-like symptoms. Residents are reminded of proper etiquette surrounding sneezing and coughing.
“Wash your hands. Cough in your sleeve,” said Cedar Mountain Commons’ wellness director, Christine Sampson, RN. “Basic, simple steps they can remember.”
It’s been an intense flu season, but there’s encouraging news in the latest CDC report. The rate of deaths from influenza and pneumonia is down slightly. Still, nearly one out of 10 deaths in the U.S. is flu-related.
Getting a vaccine is still one of the best ways to protect yourself from influenza. Learn more here.