Health unit releases 2017-18 health care influenza immunization rates

Immunization rates have been relatively consistent in nursing homes and retirement homes, while hospital rates have increased slightly from last season.

Influenza immunization rates are reported to the Grey Bruce Health Unit as of Dec. 15, 2017. Current rates may be higher as facilities continue to immunize staff and residents. Staff results include all employees, licensed independent practitioners, adult students/trainees, volunteers and contract workers.

Immunization rates of staff at local nursing homes averaged 71 per cent this year, the same rate as 2016-17. Country Lane Nursing Home in Chatsworth reported 96 per cent of staff received influenza immunization, with Errinrung Nursing Home in Thornbury, a close second with 94 per cent.

Local retirement homes averaged 75 per cent, up from 73 per cent in 2016-17. Hampton Court in Southampton, Choices Living Retirement Residence in Hanover, Errinrung Retirement Home in Thornbury, and Kelso Pines Retirement Lodge in Owen Sound, all reported 100 per cent of their staff has received the influenza immunization.

The immunization rate for health care workers in local hospitals varied from 45 per cent to 96 per cent, for an overall average of 73 per cent, an increase from 69 per cent in the 2016-17 season. Grey Bruce Health Services Lion’s Head and Tobermory, achieved 96-per-cent staff immunization.