January 7, 2005

Get a flu shot - it's not too late

The MGH — like many hospitals throughout the region — has seen a steady increase in the number of cases of influenza since mid-December. While it is impossible at this time to predict how severe the flu season will be, it is clear that the flu season has arrived and will be here well into February and possibly later. Flu shots represent one of the best ways to limit or prevent the spread of influenza.

In recent weeks, the MGH has obtained additional supplies of flu vaccine, and as a result, the hospital now has sufficient doses to offer flu shots to any employee who would like to receive one. It is especially important for those staff members involved in direct patient care or those who are involved in frequent patient contact to be vaccinated as soon as possible, as the immunity benefits from the vaccine take
approximately two weeks to be fully realized.

The hospital will offer flu shots to MGH employees on a walk-in basis Jan. 12, 13, 14, 18 and 19 from 7:30 am to 4 pm at the MGH Occupational Health Service, 100 Charles River Plaza, Suite 404. Employees will need to show their MGH or Partners ID badge to receive a flu shot.