The New York Health Department is requiring healthcare employees to either receive a flu shot or wear a mask when in close contact with patients during flu season, according to a report from NBC 4 New York.
While the rule does not bring any immediate repercussions, hospitals and healthcare facilities will be required to report compliance and vaccination status of every employee. The rule will go into effect when state health officials perceive above average risk of influenza, according to the report.
Some healthcare worker unions have complained about the regulation, calling it coercion.
The New York Health notes that the CDC says the vaccine is a safe and effective preventative measure and hopes the will reduce influenza transmission. Influenza was widespread in New York for 22 weeks in 2012, according to the report.
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