Cannon Hospital Takes New Step to Protect the Community From Influenza

Cannon Memorial Hospital employees, medical staff and volunteers will be required to participate in a new mandatory annual influenza immunization policy to protect patients, fellow employees, family members and the community.

“Cannon’s new vaccination policy has the full support of the medical staff and board of directors.  DHEC has already reported widespread influenza activity in South Carolina recently.  Healthcare personnel must demonstrate a higher level of responsibility to ensure the safety and health of their patients, co workers and the community by taking all necessary measures to prevent the spread of illnesses such as the flu,”  said Sharon Stark, Director of Infection Control of Cannon Hospital.

The influenza vaccine was made available to all Cannonemployees, medical staff and volunteers, while those with qualified exemptions for not receiving the shot will be required to wear a mask while working in the hospital during flu season.   “This is strictly a precaution to protect the individual and those around them if they are not able to be vaccinated.  We see our new policy as a commitment and a benefit to everyone involved.”

Cannon Memorial Hospital www.cannonhospital.org  is a non-profit community owned hospital founded in 1947.  The licensed 55 bed acute care facility has a management agreement with AnMed Health and serves the greater Pickens community.