Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a seasonal viral illness that disproportionately affects older adults in post-acute and long-term care (PALTC) settings.  

Strategies for Influenza Prevention and Management in PALTC

• Vaccination: Annual influenza vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure. Ensuring high vaccination rates among both residents and healthcare workers is crucial. Newer high-dose vaccines or adjuvant vaccines, designed specifically for older adults, offer enhanced protection.
• Rapid Diagnosis: Utilizing rapid influenza diagnostic tests can assist in swift identification, leading to timely patient management and outbreak containment.
• Antiviral Treatment: Antiviral medications, when administered early, can reduce the severity and duration of illness. They can also play a role in prophylaxis during outbreaks.
• Infection Control Measures: Implementing strict hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, usage of personal protective equipment, and isolation of affected individuals are key components of halting transmission.
• Surveillance: Regular monitoring for influenza-like illness, coupled with lab confirmations, can help in early outbreak identification.
• Education: Continuous education of staff, residents, and visitors regarding the importance of vaccination, symptom recognition, and preventive measures is vital.
• Environmental Controls: Ensuring adequate ventilation, frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces, and avoiding overcrowding can reduce viral spread.

• Summary: ‘Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)—United States, 2023-24’
• Fact Sheets (developed by PALTmed, GAPNA, and GSA)
  • Benefits of Enhanced Influenza Vaccine Products
  • More Benefits of Enhanced Influenza Vaccine Products
  • Real-World Evidence: What It Says About Enhanced Infl­uenza Vaccine Products
  • Practical Strategies for Increasing Use of Enhanced Infl­uenza Vaccine Products Among LTCF Residents and Staff
• CDC: Influenza Vaccination Laws for Healthcare Workers (HCWs) in Long-Term Care Facilities
• PALTmed's Policy Statement on Influenza Vaccination of Health Care Personnel

Risk Less. Do More.

We are very excited about the launch of an important public education campaign to help reduce the effects that respiratory viruses have on the people of the United States every year. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines help people risk less severe illness and do more of what they enjoy. Yet many people are unaware of the tremendous benefits of these vaccines. HHS has launched a national campaign called Risk Less. Do More. to inform key audiences about the risks of respiratory viruses and empower them to protect themselves from flu, COVID-19, and RSV.  

Learn More & Access Resources