Influenza activity is increasing in South Jersey. This is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and NJ Department of Health surveillance data mined by our Infection Prevention personnel, as well as our own experience where we are seeing more patients with influenza-like symptoms as outpatients, in our ED, and as inpatients.
Therefore, we have declared that flu season has started as of Tuesday, December 17, 2019.
The start of influenza season is the date that all employees who have not received their annual influenza vaccination must wear a surgical mask that covers their nose and mouth while in a clinical area. This requirement is in accordance with the Cooper Influenza Vaccination Policy. The policy can be viewed on the Cooper Policy Network.
Remember:
- Proper hand hygiene and good cough etiquette are essential and remain the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of influenza and other infections.
- Influenza vaccination is still available and can be effective. To arrange for a vaccination please contact Human Resources by phone at 856.382.6436 or 856.382.6873, or via pager at 856.205.3032 or 856.205.3176.
For questions regarding the start of the influenza season at Cooper, contact Infection Prevention at 100.2254.
Thank you all for your continued vigilance in preventing the spread of influenza this season.