More workers at local long term care and retirement homes are getting vaccinated against the flu, while the average rate across local hospitals remains steady.
Staff immunization rates in local long-term care homes averaged 74 per cent this year, up from 71 per cent from 2018-2019. Country Lane in Chatsworth and Elgin Abbey Nursing Home in Chesley each reported the highest staff influenza immunization rates at 95 per cent.
Staff immunization rates in local retirement homes averaged 78 per cent this year, up from 74 per cent from 2018-2019. Choices Living Retirement Residence in Hanover, Errinrung Retirement Home in Thornbury, Hampton Court in Southampton, Nine Mile Villa in Lucknow and John Joseph Place in Owen Sound, all reported 100 per cent of their staff received their influenza immunization.
Staff immunization rates in local hospitals varied from 50 to 82 per cent for an overall average of 68 per cent, similar to the 67 per cent average in the 2018-2019 season. Grey Bruce Health Services Markdale achieved 82 per cent staff immunization, while Grey Bruce Health Services Southampton reached 81 per cent.
Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause illness and death, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Meantime, A parainfluenza outbreak continues at Kelso Villa in Owen Sound. Flu outbreaks also occurred last month at Tiverton Park Manor and Pinecrest Manor in Lucknow. A respiratory outbreak at The Village in Hanover is over, but the cause is still being investigated.
