SASKATOON – Influenza clinics are underway and the province is politely asking its healthcare providers to get vaccinated or wear a mask to protect Saskatchewan patients this flu season.
Saskatchewan-wide flu clinics began on Oct. 21.
Provincial health care leaders issued a statement Wednesday that underscores the importance of this voluntary action to protect everyone from the potentially significant effects of influenza and reduce sick leave.
“We need to make every effort to prevent the spread of influenza for the sake of patients and staff in our health facilities,” said Dustin Duncan, provincial health minister.
Get weekly health news
In 2012-13, there were 51 influenza outbreaks at Saskatchewan healthcare facilities.
The province’s ministry of health said over 20 per cent of healthcare providers, including doctors, become infected with the flu annually.
Last year, half of Saskatchewan’s healthcare workers and professionals were voluntarily immunized.
“High performing health systems have achieved up to 95 per cent compliance among health care workers and noticeably reduced flu-related illness among patients and staff,” said Dr. Saqib Shahab, the province’s chief medical health officer.
The most effective way to prevent influenza is the vaccine.
Transmission can also be limited by frequent hand-washing, coughing and sneezing into sleeves, disinfecting surfaces and staying home when sick.
Saskatchewan may consider mandatory policies for healthcare providers in the future.
Comments