Low flu shot rate among medical staff a risk to patients: officials

An Ontario government agency responsiblefor preventing and controlling infectious diseases in Eastern Ontario is considering recommending hospital staff who have not received the flu shot be banned from their workplace if there is an outbreak.

Statistics from the Champlain Infection Control Network showonly 56 per cent of staff at acute-care facilities such as hospitals get the shot.

"The numbers are worrisome," said Dr. Virginia Roth of the Ottawa-area group.

Hospital staff who are notvaccinated against influenza could make it easier for the disease to spread among patients, health officials say.

"Even if you feel well, even if you don't get sick from the flu, you can actually pass the flu onto your patients and the flu shot can prevent that," Roth said Wednesday.

"It's really … a crucial part of our duty as health care professionals to get our flu shot each year."

According to Health Canada, 4,000 to 8,000 Canadians die of flu-related pneumonia each year.

The Champlain network issued a news release earlier this week raising the alarm about the region's low vaccination rate.

They found 80 per cent of staff at long-term care facilities get the flu shots.

Myths blamed

Roth blames the low vaccination rate on myths that discourage vaccination.

Some people worry about the side effects, even though these are rare and when they occur, are mild compared to the flu itself.

Others are concerned that the flu shot will weaken their immune systems, which medical officials say is untrue.

"Every year we hear of new misconceptions or rumours or reasons why people might not getting them," Roth said.

"I think the bottom line is that these are for the most part excuses, they're not reasons, and so … we really need to inform people about how good and safe and effective a vaccine this is."

The City of Ottawa will be holding public flu clinics throughout the city starting Oct. 27.