Massachusetts has the highest childhood flu vaccination rate in the U.S.,
according to the CDC, and now Governor Baker wants to ensure even better results by mandating influenza immunization for all children 6 months of age or older, who are attending Massachusetts child care, pre-school, kindergarten, K-12, and colleges and universities.
Curbing the flu as a resurgence of COVID-19 is expected in the fall will keep people healthier and reduce the possibilities of the healthcare system being overrun by both flu and coronavirus cases.
There are medical and religious exemptions for those declining the flu shots, but children who are going to school remotely this fall are not exempt. All vaccinations must be received by December 31.
More details from the state are here.
MHA, which has strongly endorsed influenza vaccinations for healthcare workers and the general public, praised the governor’s order. Said MHA President & CEO Steve Walsh, “The upcoming flu season is of major concern to our healthcare providers, who are already working around the clock to prepare for a second wave of COVID-19. We appreciate the Baker Administration’s proactive focus on areas like classrooms, where a flu outbreak could further harm the health of our communities and overwhelm our hospitals. Just like wearing a mask and social distancing, getting a flu shot is a simple but powerful way to help our healthcare community through what will be a very challenging fall.”
Also last week, U.S. Health & Human Services amended the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act to authorize state-licensed pharmacists and pharmacy interns under their supervision to order and administer vaccines to children, subject to certain requirements.