Getting the flu can be an unpleasant event for even the most stoic among us. But for a hospitalized patient with a medically complex condition, it could pose a serious threat.
These patients often are receiving critical care services while recovering from conditions such as heart failure, respiratory failure, complex wound care, infectious diseases, and more. So if one of these individuals catches the flu, it could take an already serious situation and make it much worse.
Because they can’t limit contact with others who may be carrying the flu virus, these patients are at a disadvantage. With their health and immune systems already compromised, it can present these patients with a higher risk of getting the flu. This then can result in flu-related complications like pneumonia that can become severe and even life-threatening.
So, the bottom line?
If you’re visiting someone in the hospital, be cognizant of how you feel health-wise before you go. If you feel under the weather, stay home. And, if you feel healthy, stay that way. Get a flu shot. Wash your hands and cover your cough.
Prevention can go a long way in helping everyone this flu season.