The flu season is officially underway, and our KPMAS leaders are leading by example by getting their flu shots. Kim Horn, President, and Dr. Richard McCarthy, Associate Executive Director for the Mid-Atlantic States, got their annual flu vaccinations earlier this week.
As employees and physicians, it’s important for us to get vaccinated because it protects our health and the health of all our members. Our goal is to make it more convenient than ever for you and our members to get vaccinated. As such, walk-in flu shots – at no cost – are now available for all Kaiser Permanente employees, physicians, and members during normal business hours at all of our medical centers and 24/7 in all locations with urgent care or a clinical decision unit.
Employees and members can visit a member flu clinic at each and every medical center. In addition, employees can get a flu shot from any Employee Health Nurse. For more information about flu, visit kp.org/flu.
For employees and physicians at Regional Office, please see the Regional Office Flu Clinic schedule below to find a convenient time for you to get your flu shot:
- September 19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – Texas Conference Room
- September 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – Southern California Conference Room
- October 2, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – Southern California Conference Room
- October 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – Texas Conference Room
- October 17, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. – Colorado Conference Room
As you prepare for flu season by getting your flu shot, consider these additional preventive tips:
Plan ahead. The earlier, the better. It can take up to 2 weeks for your body to be fully protected. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention recommends that everyone who is at least 6 months old get a flu shot as soon as the vaccine is available. Read the CDC’s recommendation for people at high risk for flu complications.
Stay home if you’re sick. While it may seem like a no-brainer, employees will still go to work even when they’re feeling ill with flu-like symptoms. It’s important to understand the preliminary symptoms of the flu. If you experience them – stay home! This will help bolster your immune system and prevent the germs from spreading. You’re taking care of others when you take care of yourself — be sure to check out these tips for keeping kids healthy and self-care recommendations for adults.
Practice healthy habits. Door handles, desks and other everyday items are ridden with germs. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching your mouth and eyes. Additionally, eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of water, and get sufficient sleep to keep your immune system in top shape. Learn how you can practice and teach good hand hygiene to stop the spread of germs.
