October 8, 1999

The flu vaccine campaign "It's just a little pinch" kicks off at the MGH Oct. 13. MGHers can get flu shots, Oct. 13 and 14, 6 am to 6 pm, and Oct. 15 to 22, 7 am to 5 pm, in the Main Corridor. MGH East employees can get shots Oct. 15, 8 am to 4 pm, CNY, West Lobby, first floor, conference room B.

In a study published in the March 10 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, flu vaccine was found to be effective in preventing flu infection in health care professionals, resulting in a reduction of reported sick days. The study showed that hospital workers not vaccinated against influenza used on average two weeks more sick leave than those who were vaccinated. The unvaccinated group also reported more frequent upper-respiratory infections.

MGHers who get their flu shots will receive food vouchers for any MGH dietary site and are eligible for raffle prizes. Employees who are allergic to latex will need specially prepared vaccine that is available in the Occupational Health Service by appointment only. For more information about flu vaccinations, call Occupational Health at 6-2217.