September 23, 2013_CRS "Dear Provider/Administrator" Letters

September 23, 2013

ALTSA: CCRSS #2013-006
Influenza and pneumococcal Immunization reminders

 

Dear Certified Community Residential Service Provider:

We need your help to protect your clients and staff from the flu. Every year, approximately 100 to 1,000 Washington residents die from influenza or its complications with most deaths occurring among those 65 years or older. In addition, more than 100 outbreaks of influenza-like illness occurred last season in long-term care facilities in Washington State.

You can minimize the impact of influenza in your program by:

  • Encouraging all clients and staff to be vaccinated against flu and be up-to-date on their pneumococcal vaccine. Vaccination is the best way to avoid getting and spreading flu.  Clients and staff should be encouraged to be vaccinated now to ensure protection before flu begins to circulate in our state. Several types of flu vaccine are available this season. When multiple types of vaccine are appropriate and available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states no preferential recommendation for one vaccine product over another.
  • Taking measures to minimize transmission in your program, such as washing hands or using hand sanitizers frequently.  Visit   www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/ to get information about infection control.
  • Calling your local health department if you notice a sudden increase in acute respiratory illness (two or more ill clients) or when any client tests positive for flu. They can help with advice about testing, treatment, prophylaxis, and infection control.

Check the following websites often for new information about flu and pneumococcal disease:

Thank you for your continued effort to fight flu and protect those who are especially vulnerable.

Sincerely,

E. Irene Owens, Interim Director 
Residential Care Services
Department of Social and Health Services               

 Maxine Hayes, MD, MPH
State Health Officer 
Washington State Department of Health