Should nurses wear a mask if they have not had the flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all healthcare personnel, including nurses, receive an annual influenza vaccine. According to the CDC, "Healthcare personnel (HCP) who are not vaccinated against influenza may transmit influenza to their patients, especially those patients at high risk of complications from influenza, such as the elderly, the very young, and those with chronic medical conditions. HCP vaccination is an essential component of infection control programs in healthcare settings."

If a nurse has not had the flu shot, the CDC recommends that they wear a mask when they are in close contact with patients. This is especially important during the flu season, which typically runs from October to May.

There are a few reasons why nurses should wear a mask if they have not had the flu shot. First, the flu vaccine is not 100% effective. This means that there is a chance that a nurse who has been vaccinated could still get the flu. Second, even if a nurse does not get the flu, they could still carry the virus and spread it to others. Third, wearing a mask can help to protect patients from other respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold and COVID-19.

Nurses have a responsibility to protect their patients from infection. Wearing a mask is one way that nurses can help to keep their patients safe and healthy.