VIENNA TOWNSHIP (WJRT) -
(01/23/13) - The flu continues to be a health threat in Mid-Michigan, especially for the elderly. An agency that runs errands for seniors and checks up on their health is offering clients a kit to help fight the flu.
The owner of the Frankenmuth-based Visiting Angels franchise has arrived with a surprise package. Visiting Angels Home Care Service is delivering kits to their clients all around Mid-Michigan. There are many items in there that can help prevent the spread of the flu. In the kit are paper towels, sanitizer and wipes.
"Vitamin C, Lysol spray and liquid Dial soap. We recommend that you always use your own pen to stop the spread of germs," said Karen Martin, RN, CEO of Visiting Angels of Frankenmuth.
Visiting Angel Yvonne Baker knows flu is a big concern for her clients.
"They don't want to get it, so I make sure I wash my hands when I enter the home and when I leave," Baker said.
"The flu is so bad this year," Martin added.
Ninety percent of all flu-related deaths occur in people age 65 and older. So, agencies like Visiting Angels are doing their best to prevent the spread of the virus.
"The caregivers will sanitize the home and protect the client from picking up any bugs," Martin said.
There's nothing complicated about the kit. It can be assembled at any supermarket or drug store for about $30.
"We're encouraging families to make up a basket like this for their elderly loved ones," Martin said.
"There are probably a lot of things in there they didn't realize, like using paper towels is better than using a regular towel for controlling germs," Baker said.
"I think there's a lot of things in there I can use," said one elderly client.
For more information on the Visiting Angels flu fighting kits, click here.
