FYI- Mand. Flu Shots for healthcare workers

NYS has instilled a mandation for flu shots... I got notice yesterday from work....

From http://www.nysna.org/news/online/081109.htm


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Update: Flu shot requirement in effect
The emergency rule requiring nearly all healthcare workers in New York State to get flu vaccinations has been filed with the Secretary of State and is in effect for at least the coming flu season.

The regulation affects all healthcare personnel, both paid and unpaid, who interact with patients in hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centers, certified home health agencies, long-term healthcare programs, AIDS home care programs, licensed home care services, and hospices. It does not affect nursing home personnel; an immunization mandate for them would have to be enacted through legislation.

The regulation covers includes all medical staff, contract staff, and students who either have direct patient contact or contact with employees closely working with patients or residents. Healthcare personnel will be exempt from vaccination only if a physician or nurse practitioner certifies that it is medically contraindicated for that individual.

While the New York State Nurses Association recommends that nurses choose to be immunized for the flu, it opposes mandatory immunizations. In testimony delivered to the SHRPC Codes and Regulations Committee on July 23, we cautioned that, by itself, this extreme measure will not prevent the spread of the influenza virus in hospitals.

See our talking points about this issue that you can use in communicating with your employer and local legislators.

Re: FYI- Mand. Flu Shots for healthcare workers

WOW! I am a nurse and i usually do get the flu shot but last season I refused it bc I was pregnant and very nervous about getting it. I dont know how I would have felt if it was MANDATORY

However, I must add that last year I was working in education and did not have direct patient contact, although i was in a hospital.

This year I will be working with patients.