Attch VIII - VHA Directive 1192.01, Seasonal Influen..pdf

This document is a VHA Directive (1192.01) outlining the mandatory Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program for Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Health Care Personnel (HCP). The directive establishes a comprehensive policy requiring all VHA health care personnel to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination by November 30 each year, with compliance being a condition of employment. Health care personnel who cannot receive the vaccine must obtain a medical or religious exemption and wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.

Key requirements include: HCP must either be vaccinated or obtain an exemption, complete VA Form 10-9050, and follow masking guidelines if unvaccinated. The directive covers all VA employees, volunteers, trainees, residents, interns, and contractors working in VA facilities. Non-compliance can result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. The policy is supported by multiple professional organizations and aims to reduce influenza transmission in VA healthcare settings, with the CDC reporting that only 81.1% of HCP were vaccinated in recent seasons, well below the targeted 90% vaccination rate.