Helping seniors fight the flu

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- According to the latest numbers from the government, the flu virus is hitting our region hard - particularly senior citizens.

The CDC says this year's vaccine is only 14 percent effective for those over 50.

Mark Ross of the Hospital & Health System Association of Pennsylvania, explains, "We're seeing more cases of people that are pretty sick."

Ross is with a group that represents hospitals across the region. He says providers are in the midst of ramping up for flu cases.

Some are staffing normally unused beds, while others are considering separate waiting rooms for those coming into emergency rooms.

He explains those areas are used to hold flu patients, "so they are not potentially infecting other patients who don't have the flu waiting in the emergency departments. So segregating those people out."

The goal is to prevent the spread of a disease that can kill.

The Mercy Life Center in South Philadelphia is described sometimes as an adult day care center and then some.

Dr. David Mingle explains why older people are more at risk for the flu.

"The immune systems of an elderly person are not as strong, as robust as younger individuals. So, they can't fight off the infection."

The rule is everyone gets a flu shot. The government says this year's shot is not as effective as hoped, but still Mingle says people should get one even now.

Staffers watch for any signs of flu. If there is a suspected case, that person may be isolated.

Dr. Mingle says, "If necessary we'll have them stay home and provide what care they need at home until they get over the illness."

Mingle says in the midst of flu season the best defense is good hygiene, hand sanitizer, and frequent washing - 20 to 30 seconds.

He tells us, "Singing happy birthday twice. So if you're sitting at the sink washing your hands singing happy birthday, you go through that twice and that's usually enough time to rinse your hands off and you're ready to go."

At Mercy Life Center they have not had a confirmed case of the flu yet this season. They are very vigilant, and they hope it stays away from their doorstep.