October 18, 2002

It's just a little pinch:
MGH offers flu shots

Despite last year's mild flu season, it is important for MGHers to protect themselves from the flu this year by getting vaccinated. According to Susan Loomis, RN, director of MGH Occupational Health Services, the flu is not just a bad cold. It is far more dangerous and can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis and even death. Each year, the flu is responsible for the hospitalization of 114,000 people and 20,000 deaths in the United States. (Above: Lisa Sohl, RN, administers a flu shot.)

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that hospital employees receive flu vaccination to ensure adequate staffing in the event of a flu epidemic and to prevent transmission of flu from employees to patients. Last year, approximately 6,000 employees and volunteers received vaccinations at the MGH.

Important information to remember about flu shots:

• The flu vaccine is safe and effective. Flu shots are incapable of causing flu infection because the vaccine has been inactivated.
  
• Flu vaccine also is accessible. It does not take much time to get vaccinated for the protection of employees and others.
• Flu shots will be available at the MGH Oct. 21 to 27, from 7 am to 5 pm in the Main Corridor, at CNY, Building 149, Nov. 6 and 12, from 9 am to 3 pm, and at One Constitution Center, Nov. 7, from 9 to 11 am. No appointment is necessary.
• Employees must present their ID badges and should wear clothing that easily rolls up to the top of the arm. The vaccine also is available in areas participating in the peer vaccination program, including all inpatient units. Employees with latex allergies should call Occupational Health at (617) 726-2217 to schedule an appointment for specially prepared vaccine.