WALTHAM, Mass.―For most people, the flu is a temporary setback that makes them feel under the weather for a week or two. For dialysis patients with kidney failure, however, the flu is a serious health threat that can lead to pneumonia and other life-threatening complications. Beginning in October, Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA)―the owner of a network of dialysis facilities―will offer all its patients and clinical staff an annual flu vaccine, which aims to protect against seasonal flu and H1N1.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, and particularly older adults, to be vaccinated against the flu every year. CKD is a progressive, usually permanent, loss of kidney function that can take place over a period of months or years. When CKD progresses to kidney failure, or end stage renal disease (ESRD), the only treatments are a kidney transplant or dialysis, a life-sustaining treatment typically required every two to three days.
Carolyn Latham, VP of Clinical Quality and UltraCare® at Fresenius Medical Care said, "It’s important for all of our patients and staff to be vaccinated against the flu because of the serious health complications that can result from this illness. We also urge patients to take precautions in their daily lives to protect themselves from catching and spreading influenza viruses."
Fresenius Medical Care offers these tips to help patients avoid the flu this season:
•Wash your hands often with soap and water, and scrub them all around for at least 20 seconds—the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” from beginning to end twice. Remember to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails too. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
•Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth—this is how germs are spread.
•Your dialysis treatment is extremely important, so if you have signs of the flu when you come in for treatment, inform your caregivers before entering the clinic. They can provide you with a mask that may protect your fellow patients and staff, while allowing you to receive treatment.
Source: Fresenius
