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Influenza is caused by an RNA virus from the Orthomyxoviridae family (that consists of the genera

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Influenza is caused by an RNA virus from the Orthomyxoviridae family (that consists of the genera influenza A, B, and C). Human influenza A and B viruses cause seasonal epidemics almost each winter within the United States. Influenza type B infects humans only, therefore it is unable of undergoing a mutation. Pandemics are caused solely by influenza A strains. The emergence of a new and completely different influenza virus to infect people will cause an influenza pandemic. Influenza kind C infections cause a mild respiratory illness and aren't thought to cause epidemics (Duncan, 2013).
The influenza virus is transmitted from human to human mainly by droplet, although there are cases of animal to human transmission. The incubation …show more content…

I would explain to Debbie that the Flu vaccine cause antibodies to develop in the body within 2 weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine, but there is always a small chance of her getting it because there might be a new strain that can develop every year (Unknown, 2013). Also, there is a benefit of getting the vaccine because even if the viruses (her antibodies and the strain going around in the facility) are not closely matched; the vaccine can still defend her and prevent flu-related complications (this is referred to as cross-protection) against different influenza viruses (CDC, 2013).
b. The nurse must also consider the older adult population that is affected in this situation. Why?
It's estimated that 90% of seasonal influenza-related deaths and more than 60% of seasonal influenza-related hospitalizations within the United States every year occur in people 65 years and older (Unknown, 2013).
Elderly patients residing in long-term care facilities are vulnerable to influenza outbreaks which might cause widespread illness with a high fatality rate. To fight off outbreaks, all long-term care facility residents and health care personnel must be vaccinated against

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