Flu season is around the corner and the vaccines are offered to all UM SRH team members free of charge in clinics scheduled beginning this coming week at UM Shore Medical Centers at Chestertown, Dorchester and Easton. See schedule below:
IMPORTANT! Be sure to bring your employee badge as it will be scanned after you get your vaccine (there will not be stickers this year).
NEW THIS YEAR:
THE WINDOW FOR RECEIVING THE FLU VACCINE CLOSES NOVEMBER 11. Any team member who has not received the flu vaccination and does not have an approved declination will not be allowed to work after November 11.
The egg free vaccine is available only at EHS offices during drop-in hours. (Please note that during the clinics, EHS offices will be closed.)
WHY GET VACCINATED?
There are many reasons, according to Nancy Bedell, manager, Employee Health Services. “We hear people say, ‘Oh, I never get the flu, and if I do, I’m tough,'” she says. “But the reality is that if you get the flu, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, as well as place other people at risk for falling sick. Even if you’re super healthy, your co-workers, patients, friends or family members may not be. Getting vaccinated protects you and them getting the flu.”
Bedell also notes that while many people fear that the flu vaccine “will give them the flu,” in fact, that is not possible because the vaccine is made of dead flu viruses.
“Providing free vaccinations to our staff, physicians and volunteers is one way Shore Regional Health fulfills its mission, Creating Healthier Communities Together,” she maintains. “By getting the flu vaccine we contribute to the health of the communities we serve.”
REMEMBER:
- If you receive the vaccine elsewhere, fax the information to EHS: 410-822-2555.
- Be sure your name can easily be read and include your status (employee, physician, auxiliary, etc.).
The best time to get your flu vaccine is at a Flu Vaccine Clinic!