The fall season is upon us and with it comes the potential for an increase in respiratory illnesses, especially among those that are most vulnerable. Infants and children, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions or immunocompromised statuses are at greater risk for experiencing severe illness from conditions such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and influenza.

Annual vaccinations against influenza and COVID-19 are now available. Vaccinations for RSV and pneumococcal disease are also available any time of the year and are given based on current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. Vaccinations may help offset against widespread outbreaks, especially in close living arrangements like long-term care facilities.  That is why it is important to offer these vaccinations to those living in this particular setting.

Efficacy and Benefits

Vaccine formulations can vary from year to year based on changing strains of viruses or bacteria that may be circulating at that time.  Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC updated the vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcus, and rendered additional recommendations for older adults for RSV vaccinations.

By staying up-to-date with the latest vaccine formulations, one can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.  For example, the flu vaccine is estimated to reduce the risk of flu illness by 40% to 60% among the overall population. Even if an individual contracts a respiratory virus, the vaccine may help prevent complications.

Vaccination can also contribute to herd immunity. This form of indirect protection occurs when a significant portion of the community is immunized, thereby reducing the overall amount of virus that can spread.  This is particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot receive certain vaccines due to allergies or medical conditions. It is important to educate and offer staff the opportunity to receive vaccinations as well, to protect not only themselves, but those that they care for.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

Despite the clear benefits, misconceptions about vaccines persist. One common myth is that getting vaccinated can cause the illness it’s meant to prevent. This is not true. The flu vaccine, for example, is made from inactivated virus strains, which cannot cause the flu. Another concern is the side effects of vaccines. While some individuals may experience mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, these are typically short-lived and far less severe than the diseases themselves.

There’s also skepticism about the necessity of vaccines for healthy individuals. However, even healthy individuals are at risk of contracting and transmitting diseases. By getting vaccinated, residents and staff play a vital role in protecting those around them, including family members, co-workers, and community members who may be more susceptible to serious illness.

Encouraging Vaccine Uptake

As health care providers, it’s our responsibility to educate residents and staff about the importance of staying current with vaccinations. This includes offering the vaccinations as per recommended schedules, discussing the risks and benefits of the vaccinations, answering any questions or concerns an individual may have, and ensuring vaccines are available and accessible. Posters and informational guides posted in highly viewed areas, training sessions, and informal conversations are ways to encourage vaccine uptake among residents and staff.

How The Compliance Store Can Help

Vaccination is an integral part of preventative health care.  By ensuring vaccinations are offered and given, especially to those most vulnerable, we can help offset potentially severe illness and protect those around us. The Compliance Store understands the importance of protecting those under your care.  Our vast library of policies and tools can assist you with your compliance efforts when it comes to vaccination. 

For more information on the tools available to you and how we can support your vaccination program, contact us online or call us toll-free at 1-877-582-7347.