Have you had your flu jab yet? This year, as you’re probably aware, we’re doing things differently because of Covid-19 and the need for physical distancing. But we still aim to meet a national target to vaccinate 60% of our workforce.
Lots of staff have volunteered to become peer immunisers and your line manager will be able to tell you who the local peer immunisers are for your ward or clinical area. In all, more than 100 people put their names forward to carry out this role– a tremendous response. Please contact your Peer Immuniser so that they can arrange to be vaccinated in your workplace and they will forward your details to Occupational Health so that they can be included in your records.
Occupational Health are also busy carrying out immunisation by appointment. Health records kindly agreed to become a bookings hub for staff appointments, and you can ring them on 01324 566249 to make arrangements. Please make sure you arrive for your appointment on time and that you wait in Seminar Room 8 (next door to the entrance of Occupational Health) so that you can be called through for your appointment. If you’re late for your appointment you may not be seen but staff will do everything possible to accommodate you so please let them know if you are running late or have any difficulties in attending at the arranged time.
It would also be helpful if you could complete a consent form beforehand and either email this over in advance or download a copy and take it with you (copies of the form can be found on the flu section of the Staff Intranet). Remember, in the interests of safety and to avoid overcrowding, please don’t just drop into Occupational Health without an appointment in the hope someone is around to give you a jab.
As in previous years, there will be an outreach service provided to Falkirk Community Hospital, Stirling Health and Care Village, Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre and HQ sites. Details of these will follow shortly but the clinics are likely to be in November 2020 and you’ll also need to book an appointment for these too.
Winter is always our busiest time but an increase in Covid-19 cases and a spike in seasonal flu could result in more pressures than ever before. High rates of staff vaccination will help protect you, reduce sickness absence and lower the risk of spreading flu to those you care for. This year more than ever it’s vital we all keep as well as possible. That’s why getting a flu jab is a must.
