Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause illness and death, particularly among vulnerable populations. Annual influenza immunization of healthcare workers stops the spread of influenza to those at highest risk. High rates of immunization of healthcare workers is a public health goal.

This year, influenza immunization rates for healthcare workers range from 67 per cent for hospitals to 74 per cent in retirement homes. Long-term care and retirement home immunization rates have been relatively consistent, while the rates in hospitals have decreased slightly from last season.

Facilities report Influenza immunization rates to Public Health as of December 15, 2018. Current rates may be higher as facilities continue to immunize staff and residents. Staff results include all employees on payroll, licensed independent practitioners, adult students/trainees, volunteers and contract workers.

Staff immunization rates at local long-term care homes averaged 71 per cent this year, the same as 2017-2018. Errinrung Long-Term Care Home in Thornbury reported 98 per cent of staff received influenza immunization with Elgin Abbey Nursing Home in Chesley, reporting the second highest rate in a long-term care home at 93 per cent.

Local retirement homes averaged 74 per cent, slightly down from 75 per cent from 2017-2018. Choices Living Retirement Residence in Hanover, Elgin Abbey Lodge in Chesley, Errinrung Retirement Home in Thornbury, Nine Mile Villa in Lucknow, and Kelso Pines Retirement Lodge in Owen Sound, all reported 100 per cent of their staff received their influenza immunization.

The immunization rate for staff in local hospitals varied from 50 to 84 per cent for an over-all average of 67 per cent, down from 73 per cent in the 2017-2018. Grey Bruce Health Services Markdale achieved 84 per cent staff immunization.

Improving both healthcare worker and overall community influenza immunization remains a public health priority to support a healthier future for all.

source: media release, GBHU