As the influenza season begins, the American Nurses Association (ANA) calls on all registered nurses to get the seasonal influenza vaccine. After all, as nurses, we have an ethical obligation not only to protect ourselves, but also to protect our patients and our families from influenza illness. ANA has long emphasized to nurses that vaccination is one simple step that everyone should take. Simultaneously, during the 2009-2010 influenza season, this nation is also facing a major health threat caused by the H1N1 virus.
The above is an excerpt from a letter by President Rebecca Patton, MSN, RN, CNOR, of the American Nurses Association (ANA) urging nurses to get vaccinated for both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus (swine flu). To read the full letter, click here: ANA Letter to Nurses.
The H1N1 vaccine is at best flawed and in short supply. The panic mirrors the 1976 panic inspired by hyped news reports. The death rates from the regular influenza towers over the H1N1 virus. This panic inspired by a media and government is big on hype and short on actual danger. Yes, people may die from the H1N1, but more will die from the influenza virus. More people will die from other causes that are not hyped.
We supply healthcare professionals and nurses to a wide range of disciplines including dental and we are advising all of our placements to get vaccinated – good advice with winter approaching