Best practices for seniors during respiratory virus season

Each year, when temperatures drop and gatherings move indoors, we enter respiratory virus season. During this time, from October through late March, many viruses circulate at a higher rate than any other time of year, the most common of which include influenza, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). These infections can range from common cold-like symptoms to significant complications such as pneumonia, which can lead to serious illness, hospitalization or even death. As of Feb. 22, flu cases in Pennsylvania were more than one-and-a-half times higher than they were during the same period the year prior. Just two weeks earlier, they were more than two-and-a-half times higher than the year prior.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable to severe illnesses from respiratory viruses because aging naturally weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight these infections. Additionally, underlying health conditions common among seniors, in particular diseases of the heart, lung, kidneys or liver, as well as diabetes or cancer, can further increase their risk. When the body struggles to fight an illness, it can take much longer to recover. This can lead to extended bed rest, which increases the risk of developing pneumonia and blood clots. Infections can also cause dehydration and acute kidney injury, making infection prevention especially important. Seniors can take several preventative measures to help protect themselves from respiratory viruses.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe illnesses. Vaccines help the body recognize and fight off common viruses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are recommended annually, with an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine within six months of the initial seasonal shot. The RSV vaccine is fairly new and was introduced in the 2023-2024 respiratory virus season. Recommendations suggest a single dose for adults, although these guidelines may change in the future. Seniors are at increased risk for pneumococcal disease and pneumonia, so it is important for them to consult with their physicians to determine if they have received the necessary doses for protection. Finally, while it’s not a respiratory virus, shingles can be caused by stress on the body, such as being sick. For individuals over age 50, being proactive with the shingles vaccine can reduce symptoms and severity if an outbreak occurs.

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Hand hygiene is a simple yet effective way for seniors to protect themselves from infection and to stop the spread of viruses. Someone who is sick may leave the virus on a surface, which can then be transferred to someone else who touches it and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth without washing their hands. This can happen, for example, if someone eats before washing their hands. Use soap and water, and wash your hands thoroughly before eating or touching your face. If soap and water are unavailable, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is effective at killing viruses. It can be convenient to carry a small hand sanitizer for use in public spaces, such as after using a grocery cart, touching a counter, credit card machine, railing or any other high-touch surface. It is also OK to ask others, like caregivers or medical staff, to wash their hands before providing care.

Regular cleaning reduces the presence of viruses on frequently touched surfaces. Disinfecting high-touch areas including doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, sink handles and toilet flush levers is recommended. If antiviral wipes are available at grocery stores, use them on carts before shopping for additional protection. Increasing the frequency of cleaning if someone in the household is ill can further reduce the risk of virus transmission.

Proper respiratory etiquette also helps prevent the spread of viruses. Always covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, disposing of it immediately and cleaning your hands afterward is the way to keep germs to yourself, stopping the spread to others. If no tissues are available, coughing or sneezing into your elbow rather than your hands is the next best option. If you have to cough or sneeze into your hands, make sure to clean them afterward. Also, if you must go out while experiencing respiratory symptoms, wearing a mask in public can help prevent the spread of germs. Wearing a mask in public can also help protect you from getting sick.

By regularly following these best practices, seniors can reduce their exposure to respiratory viruses and their immune systems will have much less to fight. PJC

Joyelle Bateman, RN, is infection control and education manager of the Jewish Association on Aging.