Be Prepared for Flu Double-Whammy

Hello Eric!  This is a very timely post and one that raises many issues on a lot of our minds.  Like any impending disaster, being prepared is essential.  Immunization, good hygiene practices, and proper cleaning techniques go a long way in a situation like this.  Reducing exposure to flu is difficult however, when so many employers choose to ignore the safety recommendations issued by government authorities.  Sick workers pass the disease to clients and each other.  In a senior care center, this is the perfect storm for disaster.  Thanks for reminding us about caregiver issues.  Now is the time to formulate a backup plan for caregiving and to develop a wellness strategy.--Joe

In my humble yet educated opnion, an already compromised immune system cannot be inticed to be kick-started by introducing a host of poisons!  I believe a weakened mind and body could only benefit thru enhancements...nutrition, physical activity, rest and enough respect and love from our surrounding environment.

My mother is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's and I have asked about her receiving the H1N1 Flu shot.  I was told that nursing homes are low on the list.  My mother does not drink enough fluids so she has bladder infections a lot.  She has lost weight lately, so I am concerned about her. Mother is 89 and has had Alzheimer's for about 6 years.  She is getting into the last stages of her disease.

Another concern is that I have Lupus and have recently been diagnosed with accute respiratory disease associated with my Lupus. I did get the regular flu shot as soon as it was offered. I have tried to get an H1N1 shot through my doctors and the local Health Department and was told that I am not considered high on the list because I am 62 even with my health problems.  I worry about getting the flu and I am the only care giver for my mother (I lost my brother & sister a few years ago).  I also don't want to unknowingly give the flu to her or others at the nursing home.

I am trying to eat well, get enough rest, exercise, wash my hands often and all the things that are recommended to stay healthy. I know there are others out there that are as frustrated as I am.

Here we are in Canada. Well, we have the same issue about who gets the shots first. In fact, the seniors here are the last group unless they are actively sick with lung/heart problem. If it is chronical, they are not getting the shots yet until early Dec.

Younger people like me can get it given asthma and etc. I got it from this criteria.

It is really bad. The normal children are yet to be vaccinated and the goverment will bus them to a place to get vaccinated soon. Now the school kids can get the fliu, There are small H1N1 flu clinics. No seasonal flu shot yet (I know seniors in the states got the seasonal flu shot in Sept. like my parents did.)

We can only be patient. My husband may not be qualified to get shot now as he is healthy in general. Wash hands and don't touch your faces in public places.

It is still hard. I hate to say this but I felt much better after I got the shot. We still don't have seasonal flu shots available in Canada at all.

Caregivers can get it only if they are caring for active sick people or young children and 6 months or younger  babies.

Nina