Your support is required for the 2023-24 Fall Immunization Campaign
The 2023-24 Fall Immunization Campaign will have a substantial impact on the effect that respiratory viruses will have on our health-care system this fall and winter. During the height of the pandemic, amplified attention about good hygiene practices meant flu activity was ‘unusually low’, according to the data from the Public Health Agency of Canada. With possible vaccine fatigue and fewer protective actions seen in communities than in the last few years, it’s important to remind our communities that immunization against influenza and COVID-19 is a an important action to stay healthy.
A vaccine conversation should occur at every health-care encounter. Each clinic, program or office should discuss the best opportunity to support these conversations with patients, clients and families as it may be different depending on your specific context. Typically, this individual should be fully vaccinated themselves and comfortable answering common questions and answers. One tool to assist in preparing for these conversations is the Q&A document that is part of the Influenza Campaign tool kits located on the SHA Intranet. Staff immunization is incredibly important and all are encouraged to be vaccinated as soon as possible.
Materials to support you in the development of your service-line plan for patient and staff immunization, including pre-printed orders, medical directives and training requirements will be posted on the SHA Intranet. Please check this site regularly for updates.
Staff immunization remains key to the success of our system wide response. It is vital that all SHA staff and physicians get their annual flu shot and ensure they are up-to-date on COVID-19 immunizations – including the monovalent XBB 1.5 vaccine. Starting October 10, Occupational/Employee Health nursing teams, peer immunizers and others, as identified, will be offering vaccines to Saskatchewan Health Authority employees and physicians. Please reach out to your local Occupational/Employee Health nursing teams for details. Staff can also visit any public health clinic, physician or nurse practitioner offices, or select pharmacies across the province.
Beginning October 3, appointments for flu and/or COVID-19 vaccination at SHA clinics can be made online through the SHA Patient Booking system or by calling 1-833-727-5829. A list of booked and walk-in clinics can be found online at 4flu.ca. The COVID-19 vaccine will be available at all public vaccination clinics. Clinics are scheduled to begin October 10 across the province.
Thank you in advance for being part of our system-wide response. Your ongoing dedication to your clients, patients, residents, and the entire population of Saskatchewan has not gone unnoticed. If you have additional questions, refer to the staff flu information hub on the SHA website or discuss them with the health care provider administering the vaccination.
