“A gesture of care”: Why people at Sinai Health are getting vaccinated this season

Every year, approximately four million Canadians get the flu. Of those, about 12,200 are hospitalized and 3,500 die due to the flu and its complications. These aren’t just statistics, the data can represent our family members, friends and neighbours.

As respiratory virus season arrives, flu and COVID-19 vaccines are widely available. For people working, learning and volunteering at Sinai Health, getting vaccinated isn’t just about personal protection; it’s about creating a safer environment for themselves and everyone who comes through our doors. This season at Sinai Health, immunity is community.

Why our people are rolling up their sleeves

Sinai Health offers flu and COVID-19 vaccines to our people across our campuses. The annual vaccination campaign helps protect health-care providers and patients during respiratory virus season. Here’s why some of them are getting vaccinated this year, in their own words.

“We all get sick, and I often assumed that I had the flu — until the first time I actually had the flu. How bad I felt was shocking. I was completely debilitated for three days. Never again. I get vaccinated every year so that I can keep doing the things I love without losing time to the flu.”

—John Edwards, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

“I got my flu and COVID vaccines because, as a nursing student, I have a responsibility to protect the people I care for. Many of the patients I encounter in clinical placements are vulnerable to serious illness, and vaccination is one of the most effective ways to keep them, and our health-care environments, safe. To me, getting vaccinated represents more than prevention; it’s an act of respect, professionalism, and compassion that reflects the core values of nursing practice.”

—Sara Gjeka, Nursing Student, Mount Sinai Hospital

"As a new grandmother, I’m getting my flu shot to help protect my grandchild and my family. Staying healthy means I can enjoy those special moments together while keeping everyone safe.”

—Arpi Saghatelyan, Health Surveillance Nurse, Hennick Bridgepoint

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 “Getting vaccinated isn’t just about protecting myself; it’s a gesture of care that will protect my loved ones and strengthen my community. This small yet meaningful step can make a big difference in creating a healthier environment.”

—Marivic Oabel, Program Assistant, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital 

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“As a director of Occupational Health, I see first-hand how respiratory illnesses like the flu and COVID-19 can strain our health-care workforce. That’s why I get vaccinated — not just for myself, but to help protect the colleagues and patients who count on us every day. It’s a small act with a big impact.”

—Alison Dougan, Director, Occupational Health and Safety, Sinai Health

The data behind the decisions

About the flu vaccine

Older adults, babies under age two, pregnant people and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of serious illness from the flu. The annual flu vaccine provides protection for the duration of flu season. The vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age or older, because when more people are vaccinated, it helps protect us all. Learn more about flu and the flu vaccine from Toronto Public Health.

 About the COVID-19 vaccine

Immunity to COVID-19 decreases over time and the virus continues to evolve. New vaccines are developed to provide better protection against new strains. Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that everyone six months of age or older stay up to date by receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine annually. Older adults, people with chronic health conditions and those with compromised immune systems may need more than one dose per year. Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine from Toronto Public Health.

Join us in taking this small step to help safeguard yourself and our community.
 

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