Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Early spike in flu cases may not be the last one; officials recommend getting a flu shot.
As influenza illness levels begin to subside across the state, the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) reminds all Rhode Islanders that it is not too late to be vaccinated against influenza. “Although we saw an early spike in influenza cases this flu season, it is important to note that we could see the number of influenza cases rise again before the flu season officially ends in May,” said Michael Fine, M.D., director of HEALTH, adding that Rhode Island has seen 769 hospitalizations since the department began tracking confirmed influenza cases on Oct. 1, 2012. That number reflects a higher total number of hospitalizations for influenza than initially reported, as HEALTH’s staff has re-evaluated data reported by the state’s …
Monday, December 10, 2012
Surgical masks now required for all unimmunized healthcare workers.
- AWARENESS
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Monday, December 10, 2012
The following information was provided by the Rhode Island Department of Health Michael Fine, MD, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), has issued a Declaration of Widespread Flu Incidence Statewide. This declaration triggers Rhode Island’s new regulations requiring all healthcare workers who have not been immunized against influenza to wear a surgical mask during all times of direct patient contact. “Flu is here in Rhode Island, and all signs indicate that this flu season is expected to be more severe than those in recent past,” said Dr. Fine. “We encourage all Rhode Islanders to protect themselves and those around them by being immunized against influenza. Our healthcare workers have an obligation to protect those …
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Pertussis, influenza, pneumonia shots available throughout the state in November, December.
The Rhode Island Department of Health will begin public vaccination clinics for pertussis (whooping cough), seasonal influenza, and pneumonia across the state over the next two months, including one in Newport on Nov. 17. “I encourage all Rhode Islanders to see their primary care physician for the vaccinations they need,” said Michael Fine, MD, Director of HEALTH. “But these public clinics are a great opportunity for those who may not have a primary care doctor to catch up on their vaccinations, as well as for our cities and towns to test their ability to run a public vaccination clinic.” Nov. 17 Smithfield - LaPerche Elementary School 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Newport - Thompson Middle School 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 1 South Kingstown - Matunuck …
John Brown
5:27 pm on Tuesday, November 13, 2012
No Thanx, I'll pass....can you spell, "Mercury" more ›