Flu Vaccination

In the UK it is estimated that an average of 600 people die from complications of flu along with hundreds of us visiting the GP and thousands of hospitals stays per year. The flu virus is variable and changes over time and each year different strains are identified. 

Vaccines have been a widely discussed topic throughout us all over the last three years and we do respect as an organisation that every individual has their own opinion on these. However, as a health and social care organisation we do encourage you to consider having the flu vaccine not only to protect yourselves but also your family, our clients, and your colleagues. 

NHS England have announced that they have brought forward the roll out of this year’s Autumn/Winter Flu and Covid-19 vaccination delivery programme to begin on the 11th of September 2023. 

The earlier roll out has been taken as a precautionary measure to protect the most vulnerable from illness during winter following the identification of Covid-19 variant BA.2.86. 

As frontline health and social care workers you are eligible for the flu vaccine free of charge. All you need to book your appointment is your ID card, a payslip or a letter from Solo…it really is that easy! Appointments for the flu vaccine can be made via the following places: 1. National Booking Service (from the 18th September): https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/ 2. NHS App 3. Contacting 119 4. Local Pharmacy 5. GP surgery (please note not all GP surgeries completed the vaccine directly) 

Our ‘no time for flu’ poster attached which provides information of common symptoms and most asked questions concerning the flu vaccine. 

In relation to Covid-19 vaccination programme this is now entering its third autumn season. The primary aim of the programme remains the prevention of severe illness (hospitalisations and deaths) arising from Covid-19. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advises that the 2023 autumn booster programme is to be offered to frontline health and social care workers. If you are interested in receiving a Covid-19 vaccine booster please directly contact your GP surgery or contact 119 stating that you are a frontline health and social care worker.