Getting the flu is terrible for anyone, but can be especially dangerous for people ages 65 and older. While the flu vaccine may not prevent every infection, it plays a critical role in reducing severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death.

This respiratory season, The Health Department challenged 15 skilled nursing facilities to reach 90% flu vaccination for both residents and staff to provide the strongest protection possible. Mount Vernon Healthcare Center (MVHC) not only reached that goal, but surpassed it, reporting 97% of residents and 93% of staff vaccinated against flu this season. For this achievement, MVHC was recognized by the Fairfax County Health Department.

Mariatu Sangarie, the infection preventionist at MVCH, credits the achievement to one thing above all else: teamwork. “We call ourselves the Dream Team,” Mariatu shared. “I work with very good managers who are willing to jump on any project we have. When we know we have to do something, it’s all hands on deck.” Managers didn’t just support the effort, they led it. They divided responsibilities to make sure every section of the building was covered and for all shifts. “We were at it every day and every night,” Mariatu said. “We got everyone involved.”

Mount Vernon Healthcare Center is also one of the few skilled nursing facilities that have a flu vaccine declination masking policy, meaning staff who choose not to receive the flu vaccine are required to wear a mask during respiratory season (October to May). Leadership consistently enforced the policy, reinforcing clear expectations and emphasizing that vaccination is part of protecting both coworkers and residents.

Reaching the 90% goal was not without challenges. Some staff were hesitant, while others worried the vaccine would make them sick or cause them to miss work. Mariatu and the management team took time to address misconceptions and continued offering vaccination opportunities throughout the season. When the night staff were getting left behind, Mariatu showed up early to connect one on one with staff who were finishing their shifts. That persistence—respectful, consistent, and rooted in protecting residents and staff—made a difference. Several individuals who initially declined ultimately changed their minds and chose to get vaccinated.

Reaching 90% flu vaccination coverage doesn’t happen by accident. Mount Vernon Healthcare Center demonstrated that success requires more than a single flu clinic. It takes teamwork, creativity, clear policies, and steady follow-up. To the Dream Team and every staff member who rolled up their sleeves- thank you for your dedication this respiratory season. Your efforts help protect some of the community’s most vulnerable residents.