Beverly Hospital Sees Influx of Patients, Flu Shots Still Available

Beverly Hospital's Chief Quality & Safety Officer said the hospital is experiencing an influx of patients, with 99 currently testing positive for the flu.

Mary Anna Sullivan, M.D said patients who have been diagnosed with flu are 'responding to treatment and are doing well'.

"Our colleague absentee volume has been very low, due a large part to our high vaccination rate among colleagues, 97 percent," Sullivan said. "This has allowed us to quickly respond to the increase in patient volume and continue providing excellent care."

At the Lahey Burlington campus, Sullivan said 386 patients have tested positive for flu, more than any of the past four flu seasons.

Vaccinations are still available at Beverly Hospital, and Sullivan said they're encouraged. On Sunday, the hospital hosted a flu clinic with more than 200 vaccines available to the public.

"In addition to encouraging flu vaccinations, we are re-emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene to our colleagues, patients, and visitors, and are discouraging those with flu like symptoms to visit their loved ones at the hospital," Sullivan said.

Did you get a flu shot this year? Let us know here.