Culver City And Hollywood Hospitals Recognized For Meeting The Healthy People Flu Vaccine Target For 2020

Hollywood Hospital Recognized for Meeting the Healthy People Flu Vaccine Target for 2020

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recognized Southern California Hospitals at Culver City and Hollywood for meeting or exceeding the Healthy People 2020 target of 90% influenza-vaccination coverage for healthcare personnel.

“We’re proud to be among the 23 hospitals in LA County reached this goal,” said Shahbaz Salehi, senior director of infection control.

“Congratulations on achieving greater than 90% influenza-vaccination coverage for your healthcare personnel during the 2018–2019 influenza season,” said Keith Gurtzweiler, LA County Public Health liaison nurse for Acute Communicable Disease Control.

CDC recommends influenza vaccination for all healthcare staff to reduce the spread of influenza, especially to vulnerable populations, such as those 65 and older as vaccination is the most effective intervention to prevent influenza. The CDC recommendations are based on research that documents measurable benefits of vaccination.

According to the CDC, vaccination may reduce staff illness and absenteeism and influenza-related illness and hospitalization, especially among people at increased risk for severe flu illness. Even when viruses in the flu vaccine and circulating flu viruses are not well matched, vaccinated individuals are more likely to experience fewer complications due to flu than people who do not get vaccinated.

“Our goal is to protect our patients and visitors, so reaching the Healthy People target was a top priority,” said Syreena Afamasaga, infection control director.

“You and your staff should take great pride in this accomplishment,” Gurtzweiler added.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recognized the hospitals on Nov. 27, 2019, with an awards ceremony.