Friday, October 16, 2009

Judge Halts Flu Vaccine Mandate For Health Workers

http://wcbstv.com/breakingnewsalerts/mandatory.h1n1.vaccine.2.1252672.html


Health care workers in New York will no longer be forced to get the H1N1 swine flu vaccine, CBS 2 has learned.

A state Supreme Court judge issued a restraining order Friday against the state from enforcing the controversial mandatory vaccination.

The order came as the Public Employees Federation sued to reverse a policy requiring vaccination against the seasonal and swine flu viruses, arguing that state Health Commissioner Richard Daines overstepped his authority.

Three parties – the Public Employees Federaion, New York State United Teachers, and an attorney representing four Albany nurses – challenged the order and for now the vaccination for nurses, doctors, aides, and non-medical staff members who might be in a patient's room will remain voluntary.

The health department had said the workers must be vaccinated by November 30 or face possible disciplinary action, including dismissal.