Prevention and Control of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in Long-Term Care Facilities.

摘要

The immunization program for residents of long-term care facilities, as outlined in this document, emphasizes vaccination against influenza and pneumococcal disease because these diseases pose the greatest risk to the elderly. Since an effective immunization program employs a comprehensive set of policies and procedures to assure that all recommended vaccines are delivered to all eligible residents and employees, information pertaining to diphtheria and tetanus boosters is included, where appropriate. The principal objective for promoting influenza and pneumococcal vaccination is to reduce the disease burden and mortality associated with influenza and pneumococcal disease. However, since a small number of residents may develop influenza or pneumococcal disease despite vaccination, a surveillance program is essential to enable staff to quickly recognize cases and contain outbreaks.