Answers to common questions
There are some changes this year to where you can get your flu shot and how to report that you received it. Flu season is quickly approaching so we want to make sure you have all the information you need to prepare for the upcoming flu season. We’ve had many questions coming into our flu prevention mailbox and we are committing to provide a timely response and sharing your common questions and answers in VCH news throughout the flu campaign. Thank you for taking time to send your questions and demonstrating your participation in this important patient safety initiative.
When does flu season start?
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The Provincial Health Officer (Dr. Perry Kendall) declares the start of the flu season, and as of that date, unvaccinated staff must begin wearing their masks. This is usually at the beginning of December based on the normal appearance of the virus but it could be earlier if influenza starts to circulate sooner. Please stay tuned.
Where can staff get their flu shot this year?
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This year VCH is offering more peer nurse immunization at our larger campuses and working collaboratively with local pharmacies and family physicians to ensure they are prepared to vaccinate more health care workers. Current immunization options include: Peer Nurse Immunizers, pharmacies and your family physician’s office, if they participate in the annual flu campaign. We have made it easy for you to access further information in our staff flu locator, which includes details such as pharmacy immunization hours, location and phone number. Please note that many pharmacies require you to make an appointment for your flu shot, so call ahead if you choose this option. The flu locator also includes VCH staff flu clinics that are currently scheduled.
Is there any other way to report my flu shot other than the online reporting form?
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The online influenza self-reporting form is the only way to report to ensure you are recorded as immunized on the influenza immunization reports sent to your manager. It should only take a few minutes of your time to complete the form and there is a detailed instructions page in the beginning to assist you with this. The reporting form is accessible from any computer – at work or home. If you have trouble filling out the form we can help you with this – please email VCHHCWFluPrevention@vch.ca.
What if I also work for other health authorities- is one report sufficient?
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At this time we have no ability to track across health organizations so it is important that you follow each health authorities’ reporting procedure to ensure you are recorded as immunized. Fraser Health is the only other health authority that is using the online reporting system. Please check with the Human Resources department if you are unsure what the reporting procedure is for the other health authorities.
Why did VCH implement the Influenza Control Policy?
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This is a provincial patient safety policy which all BC Health Authorities are implementing in order to protect our vulnerable patients/clients/residents from influenza and its complications. VCH’s role is to ensure staff are aware of the policy and share information on the importance of influenza immunization and where staff can get their flu shot.
Other questions?
Email your questions to VCHHCWFluPrevention@vch.ca so we can share the answers with everyone.