Harriett visits the Minneapolis VA Medical Center

The Medical Center was recently the scene of a demonstration of a rehabilitated American bald eagle named Harriett. The bird survived an automobile accident seven years ago and can no longer fly. Harriet now lives at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, MN.

Minneapolis Distributes More than 24,000 Flu Shots to Staff, Vets
Flu shots again took center stage this fall at the Medical Center and CBOCs.  One half of the vaccine supply or 12,000 doses arrived in late September.  These doses were distributed to inpatient wards, outpatient clinics, Occupational Health (OH) and CBOCs, for immediate use.

The second half arrived in early October. The veteran walk-in flu shot clinic, in the first floor flag atrium, ran from Oct. 22 to Dec. 7. OH gave vaccines to employees from the roving vaccination cart and on a walk- in basis in OH.  Last year, 17,000 flu shots were given to employees and veterans. This year, over 24,000 shots have been given, thus far.  84% of all employees got flu shots.

Our success can be attributed, in part, to the early arrival of the vaccine and immediate inpatient and clinic access.  Flu shots were given during hospitalizations and clinic appointments. Other strategies included going directly to large groups of employees at grand rounds, staff meetings and the employee wellness expo. Flu shots are still available on inpatient units, in outpatient clinics and from OH. Influenza site.