Not very many people like to get shots! About five years ago, we took a closer look at our staff flu shot participation. The Department of Health, the CDC and leading medical journals were emphasizing that the best way to keep influenza from spreading through retirement communities was to increase staff member participation. Unfortunately only about 70% of Homestead Village staff were getting the flu shot even though it was a no charge benefit of working at Homestead Village.
Four years ago as flu season loomed, we took a new approach, pointing out that if employees truly believed our mission, then they would happily get the flu shot, because doing so might save a resident's life. It took some coaching and encouraging; but 100% of Homestead Village's staff members were immunized.
The best way the Homestead Village family can honor the staff's commitment is for every resident and every visitor to Homestead Village to get the flu shot as soon as possible. Flu is a very dangerous disease resulting in many deaths every year. The best way to keep the flu out of Homestead Village is for every member of our community to get the flu shot. The other key is not to visit if you are feeling under the weather. Coughing, runny nose and fever could be signs of the flu. Please do not enter our building if you have any of those symptoms. A visit could have tragic consequences!
If you do not get the flu shot, we ask that you use the hand sanitizer at each entrance and wear a mask during your visit. Thank you for helping to keep Homestead Village healthy and flu free this year!
