Saying healthcare workers are "on the front lines" of battling the H1N1 flu pandemic, the Department of Health today urged healthcare professionals across Pennsylvania to be vaccinated against the H1N1 flu.
"With high levels of H1N1 flu being reported statewide, it is critical for healthcare workers to stay healthy and be available to care for their patients," said Secretary of Health Everette James. "By getting vaccinated, healthcare professionals protect themselves and also their patients."
James spoke at an employee immunization clinic conducted by PinnacleHealth System at Harrisburg Hospital. The hospital plans to hold additional immunization clinics for employees to encourage as many as possible to be vaccinated.
James also announced that a statewide H1N1 vaccination campaign targeted to healthcare workers will launch in the near future. The campaign, developed with the input of healthcare professionals, offers materials for employers to use to help increase awareness of the need for healthcare workers to be vaccinated.
"We're working to inform every healthcare worker of how many lives they can protect by their decision to get vaccinated," James added. "They not only will protect themselves, but also their families, their patients and their coworkers."
All regions of the state are currently experiencing widespread influenza activity with the majority of cases reported in people between the ages of 6 months to 24 years. This age group is a priority to receive the vaccine. Other priority groups include healthcare workers, pregnant women, household contacts and childcare providers for those under six months, and those under 65 with underlying health conditions.