Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to: 1. Describe the baseline efforts of an influenza vaccination campaign in a large medical center; 2. Describe approaches that increased influenza immunization rates in the last five years; and 3. Discuss approaches that may be utilized in their facilities.


Background:
Annual influenza vaccination is the best way to reduce the transmission of influenza in health care setting. The ACIP continues to recommend vaccination for all health care workers however; vaccination rates remain low at 36%.


Setting:
Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center (WFUBMC) is composed of North Carolina Baptist Hospital, and of Wake Forest University Health Sciences, which includes Wake Forest University School of Medicine.


Population:
The combined faculty, employee, medical student, PA student, Graduate student, and volunteers is approximately 12,500.


Project Description:
Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center initiated a diversified approach for influenza vaccination. Beginning in 1999 this included campaign coordinators vaccinating coworkers in their respective work areas, expanding publicity, and increasing the number of satellite clinics at strategic locations throughout the Medical Center. Individuals beginning employment during influenza vaccination season have been offered influenza vaccination on their first day of employment since 2001. Our “blitz” promotion approach is expanding each year. Continued use of an informed consent/declination form is updated annually to reflect current ACIP recommendations. Analysis of declinations is reported to administration, and NCBH Infection Control.


Results/Lessons Learned:
WFUBMC has a record of sustained increases in influenza vaccination rates, exclusive of restrictive years. Current influenza vaccination rates exceed 60% of the combined targeted population.