Flu season officially begins December 2 and our peer nurse immunizers (PNIs) are hard at work. Thanks to these volunteers – 65 in total across VGH and UBC Hospital – many of us won’t have to leave our unit/department to get immunized.

For first-time PNIs like Angela Kim and Sylvia Szolomicki, the experience has been rewarding and, on occasion, embarrassing.

Why? Well, we’ll let them explain in their own words.

Meet Angela and Sylvia

“Fear the flu, not the shot,” says PNI Angela Kim, pictured here with Pramod Johar, PT.

VCH News: Why did you volunteer to be a PNI?

Angela: When my manager suggested this opportunity, I felt I could do it because my classmates and I ran a big flu shot campaign while we were in the BSN program. We immunized all the health sciences students and instructors at our college.

Sylvia: I’m interested in Public Health and this experience was a great learning opportunity for me. I also completed the BCCDC Immunization course along with my PNI training and learned a lot about immunology.

VCH News: What do you like about being a PNI?

Angela: Most of our patients belong to the high-risk group [Subacute Medical], and we can protect them better and in the most cost-efficient way by getting immunized. At the same time it’s great interacting with my coworkers in an authentic way. I can explore their concerns about the flu shot in detail with them.

Sylvia: I like being able to provide information to my peers about influenza and immunology. It’s also interesting discussing the risks and benefits of receiving the flu shot with my peers.

PNI Sylvia Szolomicki gives Brent Haley, VGH RN, his annual flu shot.

VCH News:  Besides immunization what is your most healthy habit during cold and flu season?

Sylvia: I stay physically active and try getting plenty of sleep. My favourite way of getting exercise is playing with my friends in a co-ed indoor soccer league.

VCH News:  What’s your most memorable PNI experience so far?

Angela: I don’t know why but I find men tend to bleed more than women! One doctor was teasing me when he bled and shouted  “I’m bleeding! I’m bleeding!” I knew he was joking but my face flushed with embarrassment. Since then I warn all male coworkers that they may bleed a little because they’re, well, a man! And I’m thinking of introducing a new slogan: “Fear the flu, not the shot”.

Immunization options

PNIs are just one option for immunization. Staff flu clinics will be held at VGH until December 5. Pharmacies and family doctor offices are other options. Whichever method you choose, don’t forget to report your immunization.

• Find a nearby peer nurse immunizer
• Staff flu clinics at VGH
• Report your flu shot online
• Get more information about staff flu vaccination

Starting December 2, staff, physicians, volunteers and contractors who have not had their flu shot are required to wear a mask when in a patient-care area.