WALTHAM, Mass—Fresenius Medical Care North America said it is preparing to help kidney failure patients and clinical staff by offering the seasonal influenza vaccine soon and H1N1 flu vaccines when available. The company’s goal is to offer to vaccinate 100 percent of its patients and healthcare workers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) predicts a more severe flu season this year, and people with chronic health conditions are especially at risk and can develop a more severe illness from any influenza infection, including the H1N1 virus.
“Dialysis patients are chronically ill, and if they get the flu they are at a greater risk of developing serious secondary illnesses, such as pneumonia,” said Carolyn Latham, VP of clinical quality and UltraCare at Fresenius. “At Fresenius Medical Care, we want to ensure that our patients and staff stay as healthy as possible during the flu season, and vaccinations are an important step in that process.”
Fresenius Medical Care also offers 5 tips to stay healthy during the flu season:
· Take the time to get vaccinated.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue if you cough or sneeze.
· If you or a loved one are sick with the flu, avoid contact with people.
· Avoid touching your eyes or your nose, as germs are spread easily.
All Fresenius Medical Care facilities are being provided with the most up-to-date information on both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines, and the company is closely following the CDC’s recommendations for both vaccination programs, according to the company.
