Failure to Become Immunized when Caring for Patients: An Ethical and Professional Obligation

摘要

In late September 2012, changes to the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Immunization, Test- ing, and Health Screening for Health Care Workers (R23-17-HCW) were proposed to reflect the most current (2011) recom- mendations of the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Advisory Com- mittee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). One of the proposed changes drew many people to a public hearing: the requirement that all Health Care Workers (HCW) either receive seasonal influenza vaccine or wear a mask when providing face-to-face patient care during "period(s) in which flu is widespread." A brief review of the rationale for mandating seasonal influ- enza vaccination among HCWs follows, along with ethical implications. The risks and benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination are reviewed as well.