Hollywood Hospital Recognized for Meeting the Healthy People Flu Vaccine Target for 2020

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recognized Southern California Hospital at Hollywood and its sister hospital in Culver City for meeting or exceeding the Healthy People 2020 target of 90% influenza-vaccination coverage for healthcare personnel.

“Congratulations on achieving greater than 90% influenza-vaccination coverage for your healthcare personnel during the 2018–2019 influenza season,” said Keith Gurtzweiler, LA County Public Health liaison nurse for Acute Communicable Disease Control.

Southern California Hospital at Hollywood was one of 23 hospitals in Los Angeles County that have reached this goal.

The CDC recommends influenza vaccination for all healthcare staff to reduce the spread of influenza, especially to vulnerable populations, such as those 65 and older as vaccination is the most effective intervention to prevent influenza. The CDC recommendations are based on research that documents measurable benefits of vaccination.

Accrding to the CDC, the vaccination may reduce staff illness and absenteeism and influenza-related illness and hosopitalization, especially among people at increased risk for severe flu illness. Even when viruses in the flu vaccine and circulating flu viruses are not well matched, vaccinated individuals are more likely to experience fewer complications due to flu than people who do not get vaccinated.

“Our goal is to protect our patients and visitors, so reaching the Healthy People target was a top priority,” said Syreena Afamasaga, the hospital’s infection control director.

“You and your staff should take great pride in this accomplishment,” Gurtzweiler added.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will recognize the Culver City hospital in December with an awards ceremony.