ACP urges immunizations for all healthcare providers
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a call for all healthcare providers to receive the flu vaccine, according to a press release issued earlier this week. In addition to being immunized against influenza, the ACP also recommends vaccinations against diphtheria, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough, and chickenpox. Providers with medical reasons or religious objection to immunization are exempt from the policy.
The infectious diseases identified by the ACP in the policy pose a risk to patients, who have an increased vulnerability to infection, as well as the healthcare providers themselves, according to David L. Bronson, MD, FACP, president of ACP. In the press release, he also notes that immunization can prevent “a significant number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths among patients” and can also minimize workplace disruption and medical errors caused by ill or absent providers. The ACP is also urging all adults to receive a flu shot and to talk to their providers about any other necessary immunizations in light of the severe flu season.