At MedStar Health, patient safety is our highest priority. The most effective way to reduce the risk of contracting influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated. Even if you received a vaccination last season, immunity decreases over time, and therefore you must be vaccinated on an annual basis.
Vaccination of associates reduces the risk of transmitting the flu virus to patients since healthcare workers are frequently linked as the source of flu in healthcare settings. You could have no flu symptoms and still be a carrier, and unknowingly spread it to patients, fellow co-workers, visitors, and your family.
All MedStar associates, affiliated physicians, volunteers, students, contracted staff, and vendors are required to receive the influenza vaccination by November 28. If you are unable to receive vaccination due to medical contraindications and/or religious exemptions, you must submit an Influenza Vaccination Exemption Form by the October 31. To obtain an Influenza Vaccination Exemption Form, or more information about influenza vaccinations visit https://starport.medstar.net/go/EveryoneCounts.
MedStar is committed to making the influenza vaccine as accessible to you as possible. Obtain your free flu vaccination from:
- All Occupational Health offices across the system
- Unit rounds in high-volume patient care areas
- Peer immunizers
- Clinics scheduled at various sites
- MedStar Health Urgent Care locations
Note: A valid MedStar ID must be presented in order to receive a free flu vaccination. PromptCare offices will submit documentation to Occupational Health.
For more information about obtaining a flu vaccination, visit an Occupational Health office or go to http://starport.medstar.net/go/EveryoneCounts.
