Doctors of BC urge physicians to get the flu shot

Flu season is fast approaching, and Doctors of BC strongly encourages everyone to get their annual flu vaccine to prevent the spread of influenza.

Get the shot or wear a mask

A physician’s primary concern is always patient safety. That’s why Doctors of BC also supports the policy of the Provincial Public Health Officer that all health care workers either get a vaccine or wear a mask in patient care areas of public health facilities.

“The reality is that patients most vulnerable to the flu are often the elderly, people with chronic, complex care challenges, and others at increased risk of developing serious complications,” says Doctors of BC President, Dr William Cunningham. “It is important that as a profession we lead by example to prevent the possible spread of influenza to our most vulnerable patients.”

Some physicians may have reasons for not getting the vaccine such as religious or cultural objections or concerns of an allergic reaction. Doctors of BC respects that. Physicians choosing to decline the flu vaccine have the option of wearing a mask.

We encourage physicians and patients to visit Immunize BC to search for local clinics offering flu vaccinations. The flu vaccine, combined with proper hand hygiene and staying home when ill, can go a long way to protecting our own health and the ones we love.