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If you work in a hospital or healthcare facility you are 'at risk' of catching and spreading influenza. If you are unvaccinated, you may be placing yourself, your family and your patients at risk. If you work for Queensland Health, you are eligible for a free annual influenza vaccine.
Healthcare workers vaccinated against influenza have decreased illness leading to reduced absenteeism, reduced antibiotic use and reduced medical visits.
The benefits to patients is far greater. Vaccinated healthcare workers reduce the risk of spreading influenza which then reduces associated mortality rates. During influenza outbreaks, staff absenteeism among healthcare workers increases, which has a significant affect on remaining staff and patients. During these staff shortages, healthy staff are often required to take extra shifts or work longer shifts. The wellbeing of healthcare workers has a direct impact on patient safety. Staff working longer or additional hours may compromise the quality of care they provide for their patients.
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