From the Director of Nursing

Where you aware that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults aged 65 and older receive two different and separate pneumonia vaccinations? The first vaccine is often referred to as PPSV23 and is received when people turn 65 years of age. The second vaccine is known as PVC13 and is given around one year following the PPSV23. Although there are variances relating to a person’s immunization history and medical conditions, this is the most common schedule. Immunizations are important for a variety of reasons. By receiving a vaccine for a disease, a person defends him or herself against catching that disease. But the benefits do not stop there; society gains a collective immunization as more and more people become immune to a particular disease. When widespread vaccination occurs, a disease once known as dangerous and deadly can be eradicated. Recently, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home, a review of residents’ medical records discovered opportunities for either or both vaccinations. In the upcoming weeks, further evaluation will determine if your loved one is eligible for a vaccination update. If so, you will receive a letter and consent form in the mailed requesting approval for vaccine administration. If, for some reason you do not want your family member to receive a vaccination, you can indicate this on the consent form as well. The nurses cannot administer any vaccine without family or representative’s agreement, so a prompt return is requested. If you have questions about your loved one’s vaccination status, please contact Cindy Snyder, Director of Nursing for further information.

Cindy Snyder

Director of Nursing