From the AHAP Blog: Mandatory flu shots for RI healthcare workers
Rhode Island became the first state in the U.S. to adopt a flu immunization requirement for all healthcare workers, students, trainees, and volunteers who may have direct contact with patients. The Rhode Island Department of Health announced that the new amendments to its Rules and Regulations for Immunization and Testing for Healthcare Workers will go into effect by December 15.
Healthcare workers may obtain a medical exemption if they have a medical reason for not receiving a flu shot; this exemption must be renewed annually by December 15. Healthcare workers who are not medically exempt but are opposed to having a flu shot must submit a statement on their refusal by December 15 each year. Those who refuse the shot must wear a surgical face mask for any direct patient contact that occurs at times when the facility determines that the flu is widespread. According to the Rhode Island Department of Health, the measure was put in place to protect patients from influenza and prevent the spread of the infection.