Getting a flu shot is important complemented by a face mask is a requirement. The health employees who were not able to get a flu shot should use face masks when interacting with patients. Almost a quarter of the full-time employees at Fraser Health have not received the flu shot. The employees are now expected to use masks in patient care areas of the hospitals, long-term care homes and other facilities.
Once more healthcare workers get the shot in the coming weeks, the vaccinate rate of 75% will continue to improve. The best way to protect patients from influenza as well as those who are vulnerable is getting a flu shot.
Those who are visiting Fraser Health facilities are required to use face masks if they have not received a flu shot. The flu shot this year is not expected to have a high effectivity rate against the dominant strain this winter, but public health officials are urging high-risk groups especially the elderly and other vulnerable groups to get the shot to ensure the best protection.
It is estimated that around 3,500 Canadians die every year from flu complications, especially the elderly with underlying conditions.
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