The first and most important step in preventing flu is vaccination. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends routine annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older who do not have contraindications.1
The benefits of flu vaccination are obvious, but the CDC reported that by early November 2016, only 2 out of 5 people in the U.S. reported having gotten the flu vaccine for that season.2
Yearly flu vaccination should begin soon after the flu vaccine is available, and ideally by October. However, getting vaccinated even later can be protective, as long as flu viruses are circulating. While seasonal influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time influenza activity peaks in January or later.
Because it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against influenza virus infection, it is best that people get vaccinated so they are protected before influenza begins spreading in their community.
Henry Schein can provide vaccines for other patient immunizations as well such as Pneumovax®23, Prevnar 13®, Td vaccine and many more!
Henry Schein offers the following tools to prevent flu outbreaks and protect patients:
Gebauer's Pain Ease® instant topical anesthetic skin refrigerant can be used to instantly and temporarily control the pain associated with needle procedures such as immunizations, injections, IV starts and venipuncture.
Fact sheet
Our vast range of hypodermic needles and syringes are available in a variety of sizes and quantities from brands including BD®, Terumo®, Covidien®, and Henry Schein®.
Ensure proper disposal of needles and injection delivery devices with sharps collectors from brands including BD, Covidien, and Henry Schein.
Our wound care supplies include 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol, alcohol prep pads, adhesive bandages (in different colors, sizes, and styles), and cotton balls, gauze, and pads.
Trust Henry Schein for surgical and examination gloves that offer tactile sensitivity as well as protection for you and your patients. View gloves from the following manufacturers:
If you're washing your hands several times a day, then you want an antimicrobial soap that delivers germ protection without being harsh on your skin. We offer hand soaps from brands including Dial®, Kleenex®, Gojo®, and Henry Schein®.
Maintain a clean environment with disinfectant wipes and sprays from Metrex™, Clorox®, Kimberly-Clark®, PDI®, and Henry Schein®.
Manage infection control with protection against contamination from splashes, sprays, and splatter of body fluids.
From facial and bathroom tissues to hand and patient towels, we have the disposable paper products that suit your needs.
1 https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/vax-summary.htm#
2 https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p1207-flu-vaccine-coverage.html