Thanks to our flu clinic staff for a pleasant, painless experience
We did it!: RNs Darlene Stuart (far left) and Mahi Etminan (far right) give us our flu immunization stickers.
On Tuesday, Dr. Dean Chittock, Vancouver’s senior medical director, and I made our way to the VGH staff flu clinic. It was mid-afternoon and the clinic had been serving a steady stream of staff since 8:30 am. Everyone greeted us with smiles and courtesy.
A painless experience: I barely felt the shot so expertly provided by RN Darlene Stuart.
From the moment we signed in to the moment we received our immunization stickers, staff were professional and efficient. More than that, they made us feel comfortable, relaxed and helped us share a few laughs — honestly, I barely felt the needle!
So, as we near the November 30th deadline, I’d like to thank our flu clinic staff for all their efforts over the past weeks and, most of all, for fulfilling their tasks with such care and professionalism.
If you haven’t got your flu shot yet, there’s still time (see below for useful resources). And, if I may offer one suggestion, I highly recommend rolling up your sleeves with a good friend.
Staff flu clinics and other immunization options
Share the experience: RN Mahi Etminan gives my immunization partner Dr. Dean Chittock his shot.
- Staff flu clinics: VCH employees and physicians may attend a staff flu clinic at any health authority’s hospital or facility. For the full list: 2012 Staff Flu Clinics.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies can give the flu shot free of charge when employees bring their VCH ID and employee number.
- GPs and public health clinics: You can obtain a flu shot at your doctor’s office or at your neighbourhood public health clinic. Refer staff to ImmunizeBC’s Flu Clinic Locator or HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.
If you are immunized somewhere other than a staff flu clinic, remember to call the Flu Shot Reporting Line at 1 855-358-3580 to advise that you’ve been vaccinated. Then, ask your manager for the sticker to apply to your staff ID.
Mask use during flu season
For guidelines on mask use visit www.vch.ca/staff.