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The Role of Vaccination in Reducing COVID-19 Deaths in Long-Term Care
Prism Health
August 21, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes
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The Role of Vaccination in Reducing COVID-19 Deaths in Long-Term Care
What’s New: A recent study by Dong et al. (2024) highlights the crucial role booster shots play in long-term care (LTC) facilities. The research shows that when residents and staff are up to date with their annual COVID-19 vaccine and follow regular COVID-19 screening, the death rates from the virus drop significantly. This combination is vital for protecting a population that’s especially vulnerable.
Why It Matters: The first round of COVID-19 vaccinations was key to slowing down the pandemic, especially in LTC settings. But over time, the protection from those initial shots fades, especially for older adults. Being up to date with current vaccine recommendations and annual vaccines help maintain strong immunity, which is even more important as new COVID-19 variants emerge. Boosting vaccination rates among residents and staff is key to cutting virus spread and making your screening programs more cost-effective.
Key Takeaways:
- Impact of High Booster Uptake: In review of data from early in the pandemic, the study found that LTC facilities with 74% of residents and 51% of staff boosted saw a big drop in deaths when combined with weekly screening. For instance, during periods of high community spread, deaths per 100,000 residents fell from 31 to 22 when high booster rates were paired with regular screening.
- Better Together: The study also showed that booster shots and up to date vaccinations combined with regular testing work better together than either does alone. This combination not only reduces severe COVID-19 cases but also cuts healthcare costs and improves overall health in LTC facilities.
- Focus on Vaccination Campaigns: It is our anticipation that CDC and ACIP will recommend an up to date 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for the fall. LTC administrators should strive for high turnout amongst residents and staff. This is crucial for lowering the risk of severe outcomes and ensuring a safer community for yourself and your residents. Efforts should include educating everyone on why vaccinations are important, especially as new variants continue to be a threat.
Go Deeper
PRISM LTC STATeam Services
Did you know that PRISM provides all of the necessary support services for your Long Term Care facility? These include:
Outbreak Control
UTI Diagnostics & Treatment
Wound Care Management
Telehealth Services
Staffing Solutions
Phlebotomy Services
Routine Vaccinations
Let PRISM help you by providing you with the support you need to carry you through all of the seasons of the year. With 500+ facilities served and 35+ years of experience, we’ve got you covered.
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Curious about utilizing Prism’s services for your facility? Book a free call with us at the Calendly link below:
Contact Us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 888-977-4086
Website: www.prism.org/ltc
Best regards,
The PRISM LTC STATeam
Disclaimer: The following statement serves as a disclaimer from Prism Holistic Care Ltd., DBA Prism Health (“Prism”), an independent physician practice and laboratory (CLIA ID 14D0889595). The services provided by the LTC STATeam were previously made possible through an agreement with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). These services have now transitioned to a private payor reimbursement model. PRISM explicitly states that it does not operate on behalf of or as an agent of IDPH. Any services provided by PRISM will be billed to the resident’s insurer. Please be aware that certain services (e.g., vaccinations) are fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and some private insurances with no cost sharing. PRISM offers a range of other services including management consulting, staffing, laboratory, wound care, telemedicine, orthopedics, dental, vision, and health insurance services. Any services that are the financial responsibility of the facility or resident will be explicitly agreed upon prior to any party incurring any costs. This disclaimer is intended to ensure transparency, prevent misinterpretation, and avoid any confusion regarding the scope and limitations of our services. For more information and clarification regarding the services provided by the LTC STATeam, please contact Prism’s Department of Compliance at [email protected].