As we head into the winter months, and with the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, it is more important than ever that more people receive the ‘flu vaccine. Research from PHE shows that having both influenza and COVID-19 increases the risk of death. Getting the vaccine will also reduce pressures on NHS services at a time when COVID-19 cases might be rising.
This is why governments in all four nations have extended the number of people who can receive a free vaccination. They include (but are not limited to):
- Frontline health or social care workers
- Those aged 65 and over (born on or before 31 March 1956)
- People living with certain health conditions that place them at higher risk
- Pregnant women
- Those in long-stay residential care
- Anyone living with someone who’s at high risk from coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list)
Those who are most at risk will be prioritised for vaccination first.
For up to date information on ‘flu vaccination availability in your area follow these links:
- NHS England – ‘Flu Vaccination
- NHS Inform (Scotland) – ‘Flu Vaccination
- Public Health Wales – Beat ‘Flu/Curwch Ffliw
- NI Direct – ‘Flu Vaccination
Vaccinations for health and care staff
BIOS would strongly encourage all our members who are frontline heath workers and are able to get the vaccine to do so. Last year, 74.3% of frontline staff in England had a ‘flu vaccine, and AHPs did slightly better at 74.1%.
You can download resources for use in your workplace to encourage colleague to get their ‘flu jab, including posters, banners and digital assets. Access them from the PHE website here.
