Influenza Vaccination in a “Special Needs” Extended Care Facility

Abstract

ISSUE: The Conway Human Development Center (CHDC) is a 515 bed extended care residential facility in Conway, Arkansas. Our clients, who range in ages from 10 to 70 years, have profound (82%) to moderate developmental disabilities. Influenza vaccines are indicated for residents and healthcare workers at long-term care facilities. Many residents in our facility are immunosuppressed or suffer from poor respiratory status due to physical deformity, cerebral palsy or chronic illness. With the threat of pneumonia always present in this population, we are dedicated to preventing anything that is known to increase the risk for pneumonia or severe respiratory disease in our residents – including influenza.