AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
August 30, 2001
AASA: BH #2001-015
Subject:? Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccinations
Dear Boarding Home Provider:?
This letter reminds you that it will soon be time for residents and staff to receive influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations.? We encourage you to plan now for how you will ensure that your residents and staff are protected.? Influenza epidemics occur nearly every year and are responsible for approximately 20,000 deaths per year in the United States.? Pneumococcal disease is responsible for more deaths than any other vaccine-preventable bacterial disease.? Influenza and pneumonia combined represent the fifth leading cause of death in the elderly.?
Who should receive the influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations?
These vaccinations are recommended for persons aged 65 years and older and for persons of any age who have medical conditions that place them at high risk for complications from influenza.? Long term care residents, because of their age and underlying health conditions, are especially vulnerable to influenza and pneumococcal disease.? Influenza in boarding homes may spread quickly.??
An outbreak of illness may put staff at higher risk as well.? Therefore, you are strongly encouraged to facilitate annual influenza vaccinations for your staff and where appropriate, pneumococcal vaccination.? These immunizations will help prevent staff from possibly infecting your residents and/or losing time from work.?
When should boarding home residents receive influenza vaccinations?
The influenza vaccine is administered annually usually prior to the onset of the influenza season.? October and November are the ideal months for residents to receive annual influenza vaccination.? However, the vaccine can be given later.? It can also be given in September if vaccine is available.?
When should boarding home residents receive pneumococcal vaccinations?
The pneumococcal vaccine is generally once-in-a-lifetime or given several years apart, depending on what is appropriate for the individual.?
How do I facilitate residents and staff getting the vaccinations that they need?
You can work with residents/families and staff to access local resources that provide the immunizations.? Resources include the attending physician?s office and the local health department.? Pharmacies, including those located within large food markets, may also offer this service.? 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 influenza or pneumococcal outbreaks?
Remind staff to consistently use good infection control techniques, including proper hand washing.? You should also learn more about prevention and control of these diseases.?
Suggested sources of information:
- Immunization Program, Department of Health - (360) 236-3568
- www.cdc/gov - Centers for Disease Control Home Page
- ftp://ftp.cdc.gov/pub/Publications/mmwr/rr/rr4903.pdf - Prevention and Control of Influenza
- ftp://ftp.cdc.gov/pub/Publications/mmwr/rr/rr4608.pdf? - Prevention of Pneumococcal Disease
What documentation is important for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations?
We suggest that you keep a record of the immunizations 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 influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations paid for?
These vaccines 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 immunization is covered in the facility rate.?
Who should I call if I have questions?
If you have questions about influenza or pneumococcal vaccinations, please contact your Field Manager.?
Sincerely,
Patricia K. Lashway, Director
Residential Care Services??????????? ?????????????????
cc:? David R. Cundiff M.D., Medical Director
Medical Assistance Administration
Beth Hines, Immunization Program
Department of Health
