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WISCONSIN HOSPITALS AND NURSING HOMES ACHIEVE HIGH LEVELS OF EMPLOYEE INFLUENZA IMMUNIZATION

MADISON - Noting that September 21-27 is Adult Immunization Week, state health officials today praised the efforts of 107 health care facilities that immunized at least 80 percent of their employees against influenza last year and encouraged more to do so this year.

"Reaching an 80 percent immunization rate is a tremendous accomplishment, and we want to recognize such dedication to patient safety," said Secretary Karen Timberlake. "We also want to encourage more health care staff to get immunized. Sick health care workers can pose a serious threat to patients, and immunization of hospital and nursing home workers against influenza reduces the risk of illness, even death, for their patients."

In 2005, the Division of Public Health began its effort to help hospitals and nursing homes in the state immunize more of their employees against influenza. That year, only 32 state facilities reached the 80 percent mark. In 2006, that number increased to 64. In 2007, a total of 107 hospitals and nursing homes reported that at least 80 percent of their employees were immunized against influenza.

Nationally, only about 40 percent of health care workers get the flu shot each year, despite strong evidence that residents in long term care facilities are less likely to become ill or die when their care providers are immunized against influenza.

Despite steady improvement, the challenge remains to persuade the 105 Wisconsin hospitals and 326 nursing homes that have not yet reached the 80 percent mark that immunization of their staff against influenza is an important step in maintaining a safe environment for their patients.

"Health care staff immunization is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce illness and mortality in Wisconsin," Timberlake said. "It's a message that we have to convey to all Wisconsin health care facilities."

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Please note: a list of the 80 Percent Club members from 2007 is attached.

2007 Hospitals

2007 Nursing Homes

Last Revised:  July 12, 2010