Flu Season Prep: Importance of Vaccines for Seniors

Fight the flu with vaccination

As flu season nears, protecting seniors is essential, as they are more vulnerable to complications. A key step is getting the annual flu vaccine, which can significantly reduce risks.

Why Seniors Are at Higher Risk

Seniors, especially those over 65, have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to serious flu-related complications like pneumonia or worsening chronic conditions. Most flu-related hospitalizations and deaths occur in this age group.

The Flu Vaccine’s Benefits for Seniors

While not a guarantee against infection, the flu vaccine lowers the chance of getting the virus and reduces symptom severity. High-dose and adjuvanted flu vaccines are available for older adults, offering stronger protection.

When and Where to Get Vaccinated

Seniors should get vaccinated by late October to be protected as flu season begins. RVNAhealth is happy to provide several opportunities to check this task off your list!

  • Saturday, October 5th from 9am-12pm – RVNAhealth 49th Annual Wellness Fair – Yanity Gym, 60 Prospect Street, Ridgefield. Walk-in flu vaccines (high-dose and regular) are offered to all individuals 6 months and older. Vaccines are free for children through the age of 18. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
  • Saturday, October 19th from 9am- 11am – RVNAhealth Drive-Thru Clinic, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield. As another convenient option, we offer our drive-thru clinic in the parking lot of RVNAhealth in Ridgefield. To expedite your process, please book a time slot HERE (1 slot per family/car) AND complete a consent form for EACH person to be vaccinated before you arrive. Vaccines are free for children 18 years and younger. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
  • At RVNAhealth By Appointment, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield – A limited number of appointments at our Ridgefield office will be available on Wednesdays and Fridays. Evening hours until 6pm will be available on Wednesdays. Available appointments may be booked HERE (1 slot per family). Please also complete a consent form for EACH person to be vaccinated before you arrive. Vaccines are free for children 18 years and younger. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Other Flu Prevention Tips

  • Practice hygiene: Wash hands frequently and use sanitizer.
  • Avoid sick people: Limit exposure to those who are ill.
  • Boost immunity: Eat healthily, stay hydrated, and rest.
  • Clean surfaces: Disinfect high-touch areas regularly.
  • Caregiver Vaccination: Caregivers should also get vaccinated to help shield seniors from the flu.

For More Information

Flu vaccines, paired with preventive measures, are crucial for protecting seniors during flu season. Contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555, or fill out our contact form with any questions. You can also visit our flu vaccine page for more information.

Screenings, Flu Shots and More! Join Us October 5th

Do you have any overdue preventive health screenings or questions about your well-being that you’ve been putting off? Do you or your child(ren) need a flu shot? If so, why not take advantage of RVNAhealth’s Wellness Fair on Saturday, October 5th to get everything checked off your list! Join us for this beloved gathering to check in on your health, discover something new, and jumpstart your wellness journey. Enjoy complimentary health screenings, connect with experts from all our service lines, and don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to receive flu vaccines for both kids and adults. It’s a friendly and comprehensive experience for everyone.

One Place, One Day: The RVNAhealth Wellness Fair

We understand that scheduling multiple appointments for different screenings can be a hassle. That’s why, nearly 50 years ago, RVNAhealth started its Wellness Fair—an event designed to provide the most common health screenings in one day, at one location. We are proud to continue this tradition with our 49th Annual Wellness Fair, taking place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Yanity Gym, 60 Prospect Street, in Ridgefield. This event is open to the community, and we encourage you to join us to take charge of your health, gain new insights, and access valuable resources.

Our Wellness Fair is led by RVNAhealth’s skilled clinical staff, covering a wide range of services such as nursing, rehabilitation, nutrition, hospice care, private caregiving, and social work. We also partner with local experts to offer various screenings, including:

  • Anemia
  • Blood pressure
  • Blood glucose
  • Carotid artery
  • Cholesterol
  • Balance + Strength tests
  • Foot exams
  • Lung Function
  • 3D Posture Scan
  • Car Seat Checks
  • Visit Sophia the Therapy Dog!
  • Kid’s Activities provided by Ridgefield Boys and Girls Club
  • PLUS! Flu Shots (both high-dose and regular) for ALL AGES. Flu vaccines for children (age 18 and under) are provided FREE of charge, through the CT State vaccine program. For adults, we accept the following insurance plans for flu vaccines: Medicare Part B, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Supporting Our Community

This year’s Wellness Fair is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors: Chef’s Warehouse, BMW of Ridgefield, Ridge Crest at Meadow Ridge, Liz and Steven Goldstone, The Greens at Cannondale/Wilton Meadows, Homecare Homebase, and Connecticut Relay. 

Stay Informed and Join Us

To keep up with the latest information about the Wellness Fair or to register for event reminders, visit our Wellness Fair event page. We look forward to seeing you on October 5th and helping you take a proactive step towards better health!

RVNAhealth Flu Vaccine Options for the Whole Family!

If you are age 6 months or older, RVNAhealth has you covered for flu season! This year we are pleased to offer a variety of ways to get your flu shot. RVNAhealth Ridgefield and New Milford offices are offering convenient drive-thru clinics, as well as in-office appointments. There are also two community clinics in the town of Bethel open to anyone. A limited supply of the new Pfizer and Moderna COVID booster will also be on hand, available upon request and availability at the time of your flu shot.

Whether you are a regular in rolling up your sleeve, or you need a little more nudging, it’s always good to get the facts. Here’s a few facts to get you started!

  • The Flu vaccines are highly effective and adverse effects are rare. Even in a year where the flu shot is not a “good match” for the virus, vaccination still protects against severe illness.
  • You cannot get the flu from the flu shot.
  • You can receive a flu vaccine if you have an egg allergy. RVNAhealth offers egg and preservative-free vaccines.
  • Flu vaccines for all children in CT, age 18 and under, are provided at no cost regardless of insurance status.
  • And you can get the COVID-19 booster and flu shot at the same time!

Recommendations for this year’s flu season remain similar to last year. While timing and length of flu activity through the COVID pandemic has been less consistent with prior years, the CDC continues to recommend September and October as optimal times for flu vaccination. Vaccination after October is still recommended for providing valuable protection through the typical peak season.

For more information on available RVNAhealth flu clinics and appointments, please visit our flu webpage or call 203.438.5555.