Influenza vaccine required for state employees working in patient care areas

Recently, a mandatory influenza vaccination program for the 2015 flu season was announced for all staff, providers, residents and volunteers across the WVU Medicine enterprise, except in the case of medical or religious exemption. This is a joint effort with Monongalia General Hospital.

All WVUH and UHA employees, regardless of their contact level with patients, are required to receive the vaccine and can do so at WVU Medicine Employee Health. WVU Medicine will kick off its flu campaign Thursday, Oct. 1.

This mandatory influenza vaccination program has been extended to include state employees (WVU) working in WVUH/UHA clinical areas. This includes those whose work requires them to enter patient care areas intermittently, even if their main work location is elsewhere. To receive the vaccine free of charge, those state employees may make an appointment with Occupational Medicine in the Physician Office Center or at the Health and Education Building by calling Veronica Cyphert, occupational health nurse, at 304-293-3693.

A free flu vaccination also may be obtained through one of the WVU Wellness sessions. Those state employees who have PEIA coverage can receive the vaccine free of charge at the WVU Wellness events, from their primary care provider, and at many other locations across the community, including some pharmacies. Proof of immunization must be provided to the department supervisor by Friday, Nov. 13.

Other non-clinical state employees at the HSC are strongly encouraged to have the vaccine each year. They can also be obtained through one of the WVU Wellness sessions. Students working in WVUH/UHA clinical areas or on clinical rotations should contact their Student Services Office to obtain information on how to receive the flu vaccine.