Influenza Vaccine (Flu shot) for health professionals at the Pediatrics Hospital of the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center
Evolution of coverage from 2006 to 2008
Abstract
Introduction: vaccinating health professionals is an important strategy to avoid spreading the sick, to diminish absenteeism in high-demand seasons and to avoid spreading the virus to relatives.
Method: in 2008 an influenza vaccine survey was conducted among the health professionals working at the Pediatrics Hospital of the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center. Prior to that, a campaign to encourage the vaccine was carried out during February and March, by jeans of brochures and meetings with the staff. Likewise, the vaccine was administered at the work place and within working hours, throughout 2008.
Results were compared to a survey that had been conducted in 2006 and to the staff’s own attitude toward vaccination in 2007.
Results: 300 people were surveyed, 39% medical doctors, 31% nurses and 30% others, workers or students.
55,3% were vaccinated in 2008; 24% had been vaccinated in 2006 and 31% in 2007.
Those vaccinated argue the vaccine is effective, it is free, they do not get sick, they do not spread patients, and they are not absent form work. Those who were not vaccinates argue they never get the flu, they forgot, it is not mandatory, lack of time.
Conclusions: the 2008 vaccination campaign seems to have been successful. We need to make our best effort to provide information and to have the vaccine available at work places, within working hours.
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