In 2011 Vanderbilt University Medical Center received worldwide attention for doubling the Guinness World Record for the number of flu shots given in an 8-hour period, making its annual flu vaccine event, Flulapalooza, a model for others to follow.
Annual flu shots are still required for all VUMC employees this year, even those working remotely. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing need for physical distancing, the Medical Center will not be able to hold Flulapalooza in the same way. Flu shots will be given in smaller venues spread out over time and will include expanded use of the Peer Vaccination Program (https://www.vumc.org/health-wellness/peer-vaccination-program), and the process will need to also accommodate those working remotely.
Because things will be different, Occupational Health is asking for help finding a new name for this year’s flu vaccine campaign and is seeking suggestions.
“This year, perhaps more than ever, it is critically important to get a flu vaccine. Within the next few months, we will have COVID-19 and influenza circulating in Middle Tennessee. While we don’t have a COVID vaccine yet, we know that getting immunized for influenza helps protect us, our families and our patients,” said Lori Rolando, MD, MPH, director of the Vanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic. “Even though we won’t have our traditional Flulapalooza event under the tent, we would like to create the same sort of camaraderie around getting vaccinated. We’re seeking ideas for a new name for this year’s event. And most of all, the name should be fun.”
The new name must have “flu” somewhere in it and promote community, must signify smaller work groups like work units or offices, be inclusive of those working remotely and be different enough so that employees still recognize it’s flu shot-related but not the same as the event held annually under the tent.
Now through Tuesday, Aug. 18, Occupational Health is accepting suggestions for a name for this year’s flu vaccine campaign. Please submit your suggestions here.
