Dialysis patients and dialysis providers are encouraged to get flu shots.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends yearly flu shots for everyone age 6 months and older. But according to the CDC, these vaccinations are particularly important for persons on dialysis, a life-sustaining process that cleans waste products from the blood and removes extra fluids after a person’s kidneys have failed.
Not only is it importatnt for the patients, but it is important that the staff in dialysis facilities get a flu shot as well.
New statistics released by the CDC show this year’s flu season has already reached epidemic levels. The CDC said one of the flu strains this year has mutated, making the flu shot less than optimal for protection in some people. In at least 36 states, the flu has reached peak levels.
Flu symptoms include body aches, fever, headache and chills. But for dialysis patients whose immune systems are weakened by kidney failer, the flu can be much worse and can include hospitalization and even death.
Although the flu shot may not work in some strains, doctors still recommend a flu shot. Especially for healthcare workers who deal with patients on a daily basis.
Read more at: CDC
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