Flu season is here and with it comes dreadful flu symptoms. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, requiring hospitalization and in some cases can lead to death. The best way to protect yourself and others around you from the spread of the virus is to get the flu vaccine. It is your strongest line of defense. According to Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC), the flu shot reduces the chances of getting the flu by 70 to 90%.
It is important to get a flu shot every year because flu viruses are constantly changing. New vaccines are created each year to offer you optimal protection. The CDC recommends that everyone from the ages of six months and older receive an annual vaccination. The flu vaccine works by stimulating your immune system to develop antibodies that attack the flu virus.
The flu vaccine is the best preventative step you can take against infection. The shot is now available at Jamaica and Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s offices of Occupational Health or the main lobby in each hospital.
If you choose not to receive vaccination, please inform our offices of Occupation Health Services by completing the Refusal to Receive section of their Influenza Vaccination Encounter form. Beginning November 16th those who do not receive the vaccination will be required to wear face masks at all times in areas where patients may be present. Hospital employees will be locked out of Kronos beginning December 1st if the paper work is not received. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in disciplinary actions.
For more details on the flu vaccine please call Jamaica Hospital’s Occupation Health Services at 718 206 6812 or Flushing Hospital’s Occupational Health Services at 718 670 5630.
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