The Carolina Inn Reports Zero Cases of the Flu in Two Years
No cases of the flu have been diagnosed in residents participating in the flu prevention program at The Carolina Inn, an assisted living community from Village Green Real Estate and Development.
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., October 24, 2019 (Newswire.com) - October marks the start of flu season, but that’s no cause for concern at The Carolina Inn. Zero residents who have participated in the assisted living community’s flu prevention program have been diagnosed with the disease over the past two years.
“Generally, the immune system weakens as people age, making seniors more likely to catch a bug,” said John Hiles, nurse in charge at The Carolina Inn. “The flu also can make chronic medical problems worse.”
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, seniors are at a greater risk of complications from influenza, as well. These can be minor ailments such as sinus or ear infections. Or, they can be serious complications such as pneumonia; inflammation of the heart, brain or muscle tissues; extreme inflammatory response in the respiratory tract; and even organ failure in extreme cases. In fact, more than half of the state’s flu-related deaths occurred in those 65 and older during the 2018-2019 season.
“Since seniors are one of the highest risk groups, it’s essential for an assisted living community to have a solid plan in place to prevent infection and transmission of the disease,” said Hiles.
That’s why starting in early October, the staff at The Carolina Inn begins taking measures to increase infection control by stepping up daily housekeeping and disinfection of common areas. Masks are provided to reduce the spread of germs and frequent hand washing is expected.
“If a staff member is showing signs of the flu or are feeling under the weather, we urge them to stay home,” said Hiles. “We also ask that family members who have been exposed to the influenza virus refrain from visiting — going as far as advertising that on our front door as a reminder.”
Tamiflu is available for staff or residents who exhibit flu-like symptoms or have been exposed to the virus.
However, Hiles noted that the most important factor in preventing influenza is immunization. So every year, The Carolina Inn puts on a flu shot clinic coordinated by Maxim Healthcare Services. Both residents and staff are encouraged to attend to receive their annual vaccine. “We have better than 95 percent resident participation.”
Preserving the health and well being of its residents is of the utmost importance at The Carolina Inn, which has garnered a reputation for unparalleled senior care. A testament to this, the community has the highest licensed nursing-to-resident ratio in the area.
The boutique assisted living community offers round-the-clock, person-centered senior care in a resort-style environment in the heart of the Village Green neighborhood.
To learn more about senior assisted living at The Carolina Inn, log onto www.CarolinaInnNC.com or call (910) 829-0100 to schedule a tour.
Source: Village Green Real Estate and Development
