Attachment VII - VHA Directive 1192.01, Flu.pdf

This document is a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Directive on the Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program for VHA Health Care Personnel, dated August 10, 2020. The directive establishes mandatory policy for seasonal influenza vaccination among health care personnel (HCP) in VHA facilities, requiring all covered personnel to receive annual vaccination by November 30 or obtain a medical/religious exemption. HCP who are not vaccinated must wear a face mask in clinical and non-clinical areas, and compliance is a condition of employment that may result in disciplinary action up to removal from federal service.

The directive provides comprehensive guidelines for implementation, including notification procedures, documentation requirements, and exemption processes. Key provisions include mandatory vaccination or mask-wearing, submission of a Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Form (VA Form 10-9050), and specific responsibilities for various VHA leadership roles. The document references CDC recommendations and notes that VHA has historically fallen short of the 90% vaccination goal, with only 81.1% of HCP vaccinated in the 2018-19 influenza season. The directive aims to reduce influenza transmission, protect patients and staff, and maintain a healthy workforce in VA medical facilities.