Dear Boarding Home Provider
September 7, 2006
Page 1
Fact Sheet Flu and Pneumonia Shots in Boarding Homes
Who should receive the flu and pneumonia shots?
These shots are recommended for persons aged 65 years and older (50 years and older for flu shots) and for persons of any age who have medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer that place them at high risk for complications from both flu and pneumonia diseases.
Long-term care residents, because of their age and underlying health conditions, are especially vulnerable to flu and pneumonia disease. To effectively prevent outbreaks in boarding homes, all residents and staff should receive an annual flu shot. Residents should also be assessed to determine whether they need a pneumonia shot. Flu shots may help prevent staff from spreading the flu to residents and/or losing time from work.
When should boarding home residents receive flu shots?
Flu shots should be administered annually, usually before the beginning of the flu season. It is ideal for long term care residents to get their flu shot in October or November; however the shot is still effective if it is received later in the flu season.
When should boarding home residents receive pneumonia shots?
Flu season is a good time for residents to get their pneumonia shot. This vaccine is generally only needed once per lifetime. Some people may need a second pneumonia shot. You can find more information on pneumonia shot recommendations at ftp://ftp.cdc.gov/pub/Publications/mmwr/rr/rr4608.pdf
How can I facilitate residents and staff getting the shots that they need?
You can help your residents/families and staff access local resources that provide flu and pneumonia shots. Ask your residents’ attending physician’s office first to see if they can provide these shots. To locate an immunization clinic in your community either call your local health department or check the American Lung Association Flu Clinic Locator at Pharmacies may also provide shots. Licensed nurses and pharmacists who have been certified for vaccine administration may give these vaccines with a physician’s order.
How else can I help prevent/control flu or pneumonia outbreaks?
Remind staff to consistently use good infection control techniques, including proper hand washing and respiratory etiquette. The list of resources provided with this letter includes information and educational materials like the “Cover Your Cough” poster which shows additional ways to reduce the spread of diseases.
What documentation is important for flu and pneumonia shots?
We suggest that you keep a record of the shots that your residents receive. This enables you to track the vaccination status of your residents and provides important medical history in the event that a resident is hospitalized or transferred, or if an outbreak occurs.
How are flu and pneumonia shots paid for?
These shots are covered by Medicare Part B, Medicaid, and many insurance plans for residents. Check the policies of applicable carriers. When there are Medicaid residents in the facility, staff shots are covered in the facility rate.
Who should I call if residents or staff are diagnosed with the flu?
Call your local health department for flu diagnoses. The local health department generally calls the department’s complaint hotline at 1-800-562-6078 to report the outbreak.
Who should I call if I have questions?
If you have questions about flu or pneumonia shots, please contact your local health department. If your questions are related to infection control regulations please call your RCS Field Manager.
Dear Boarding Home Provider
September 7, 2006
Page 1
ADSA/Residential Care Services
PO Box 45600
Olympia, WA 98504-5600