It’s Time to Get a Flu Shot!

The 2017-18 influenza season is here! One of the cornerstones of our patient-focused culture at UHealth is preventing illness in every way possible.  There are few ways to protect the health of our patients, ourselves and everyone around us that are as effective as getting a flu shot.

Dean Edward Abraham receives his flu shot.

That is why UHealth has an official influenza vaccination policy that requires all designated health care workers to be vaccinated. This includes everyone in our hospitals and community-based clinics, as well as those in roles (clinical or non-clinical) with regular patient contact.  More specific information on definitions, designated roles and requirements by facility can be found here on the flu vaccine website.

Whether you are required to or not, you are encouraged to get vaccinated. A flu shot is one of the most important ways of protecting your own health and that of others. It’s free, and it only takes a few minutes.

There are several vaccination sites across the medical campus, and as in past years, the University will sponsor a number of events to make it easy to get vaccinated. The deadline for getting a flu shot is November 17.

Complete details, including provisions for those requesting medical or religious exemptions from the policy, are available on the flu vaccine website. If you received a “permanent” medical exemption last year, you do not have to reapply; those who received a “temporary” medical exemption or religious exemption last year must reapply this year.  This year’s deadline to apply for either exemption is October 27.

Please do your part by getting a flu shot. Our patients and your co-workers, family and friends will thank you.

Tags: flu season, flu shot, University of Miami Health System