Winter Vaccinations 2024
The Importance of Winter Vaccinations for Your Health
As we enter the winter months, it’s essential to prioritise both your health and the well-being of those you care for. We would like to remind you of the critical importance of reporting any potential health issues or occupational health risks. There are some things you can do to help yourself stay well in winter. This includes getting your flu vaccinations.
Seasonal Flu Vaccination
We strongly encourage all staff to receive your winter flu vaccinations if you're eligible. Getting vaccinated every year will top up your protection and reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms. Vaccination is a key preventative measure that protects not only you but also your colleagues and the patients you serve. The flu can spread easily, particularly in healthcare settings, and getting vaccinated significantly reduces the risk of infection. If you have already completed your seasonal vaccinations, you could notify us via Staffshift live chat or UK WhatsApp Chat.
Who should have the flu vaccines if you:
are a frontline health or social care worker
are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)
have certain health conditions
are pregnant
live in a care home for older adults
How to get the flu vaccine: If you're eligible for an NHS flu vaccine, you can:
Book a flu vaccination appointment at a pharmacy online or in the NHS app (if you're aged 18 or over)
Find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination (if you're aged 18 or over)
Contact your GP surgery to book an appointment
It’s also important to notify us if you may be at higher risk of severe infection. Factors that may increase risk include:
Age: Individuals over 60 are generally at higher risk.
Underlying Health Conditions: Those with conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, or weakened immune systems.
Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals may also be at increased risk for severe illness.
Obesity: A BMI of 30 or higher can increase the risk of severe outcomes.
Promptly reporting health issues helps us implement necessary precautions to protect everyone. Adhering to infection prevention and control measures is crucial in maintaining a safe environment. Remember that effective hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and following all safety protocols are fundamental in preventing the spread of infections.
Infection Control Procedures
To maintain a safe working environment, it is crucial to uphold appropriate infection control procedures. This includes:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that you are wearing the appropriate PPE as required for your role and the specific care setting.
Hand Hygiene: Practice effective hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitiser, especially before and after patient contact.
Reporting Health Issues
Considering ongoing health concerns, including other communicable diseases, it is vital to communicate any changes in your health status. This includes:
Symptoms related to respiratory illnesses, such as cough, fever, or loss of taste and smell.
Recent exposure to Covid-19 or other infectious diseases.
Any personal health changes that could impact your ability to care for patients.
Next Steps: Send us your updated Occupational Health Questionnaire
Please ensure you complete your annual occupational health medical questionnaire and declare any health changes as they arise. Your proactive approach to health and safety is vital for maintaining a safe working environment.
Once you have completed above document and to supply your vaccination records, you can submit these documents via Staffshift by uploading it here.
Providing all supporting documents are essential. Not sure how to upload your documents? Click here or chat with us via Staffshift live chat for help.