Dear Patients, Families, and Visitors,

As we approach the influenza (flu) season, which runs annually from October 1st through March 31st, we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of protecting yourself and those around you from the flu. Influenza can be a serious illness, especially for vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.

To help keep our community safe and healthy, we ask for your cooperation in following these important guidelines during the flu season:

1. Get Vaccinated: The Best Defense Against the Flu

• Annual Flu Vaccination: Getting your flu shot is the single most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu. We strongly encourage all eligible individuals – including patients, staff, visitors, and volunteers – to receive their annual flu vaccine. It not only reduces your risk of getting sick but also lessens the severity of symptoms if you do contract the flu.
• Flu Vaccination for Patients: To make this process easy and convenient, our facility offers flu vaccination to our patients throughout the flu season.

2. Practice Good Hygiene: Simple Steps, Big Impact

• Hand Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after coughing, sneezing, or touching your face. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the facility for your convenience.
• Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes: Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of tissues promptly in the designated bins and wash your hands immediately after.

3. Stay Home if You’re Feeling Unwell

• Avoid Visiting if You’re Sick: If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills, or fatigue, we kindly ask that you refrain from visiting the hospital to prevent spreading the flu to others. We are happy to assist you with rescheduling your visit or setting up virtual communication with your loved ones.

4. Wear a Mask When Needed

• Mask Usage: If you have respiratory symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the flu, we ask that you wear a mask while in our facility to help protect others, especially those who are most vulnerable.

5. Maintain a Clean and Safe Environment

• Facility Cleanliness: Our staff is committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment for everyone by adhering to rigorous cleaning protocols and infection prevention measures. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain these standards.
• 6. Be Prepared and Stay Informed
  • Know the Signs and Symptoms of the Flu: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of the flu, which can include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. If you or a loved one develop these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly, especially if you are at higher risk for complications.
  • Stay Updated: Please check our website regularly for updates on the flu season, vaccination clinics, and any changes to our visitation policies. We will continue to provide timely information to keep you informed and prepared.

   

  Together, We Can Make a Difference

  Your health and safety are our top priority. By taking these steps, you are playing a crucial role in preventing the spread of the flu and helping us maintain a safe environment for our patients, staff, and community. We thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this influenza season.

  If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to support you.

   

  Stay healthy, stay safe, and thank you for being a part of our community.

   

  Arturo Olazabal, MS, CIC

  Infection Preventionist

  Lakeview Specialty Hospital & Rehab

  1701 Sharp Road

  Waterford WI 53185

  Prevention is Protection: Keeping Our Patients Safe at Lakeview!