Why is the flu vaccination so important for UHB staff?

Protecting your own health, as well as the health of your family, colleagues and patients, is an important part of working in healthcare.

People with flu can spread the virus before they realise they are unwell and, in some cases, without developing symptoms at all. By having your flu vaccination, you can help reduce the risk of passing flu to vulnerable patients, colleagues and those closest to you, including children, partners, older relatives and others who rely on your care and support.

Having the flu vaccine is one of the most effective steps healthcare workers can take to protect themselves and the people they care for. It can provide a high level of protection against flu and helps reduce the risk of serious illness, hospital admission and time away from work.

Flu is not just a bad cold. It can lead to severe complications, even in people who are otherwise fit and healthy. For many of our patients, particularly those who are older, immunocompromised or living with long-term health conditions, flu can be life-threatening.

The vaccine offered this year has been designed to protect against the strains of flu that experts at the World Health Organisation believe are most likely to circulate this season. It contains no bovine (beef) or porcine (pork) products and it does not contain egg.

No vaccine can offer 100% protection but it is our best defence against flu and helps us maintain a safe environment for patients and colleagues.

Are there any side effects from the flu jab?

Most people have the flu vaccine without any side effects and can carry on with their normal daily activities.

It can take up to two weeks for your body to develop maximum protection after vaccination. Some people may experience mild soreness, redness or bruising at the injection site, but these effects are usually short-lived.

Occasionally, people may develop mild flu-like symptoms such as aches, tiredness or a slight temperature. This is a normal sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine and building the protection that we keep us all safer. The adult flu vaccine contains no live virus – it cannot give you flu.

Serious reactions are extremely rare. All vaccinators can recognise and manage rare adverse reactions, and support is available should you have any concerns following your vaccination.

I’ve already had my flu vaccination somewhere else, what should I do?

Check that your name and details on your electronic staff record (ESR) match those with which you are registered with your GP. If they are the same, you don’t need to do anything. If they are not the same, and you don’t wish to update the name you are known as at work, please let us know you had your vaccination elsewhere, by completing our online notification form.

Recording vaccinations received outside the Trust helps us accurately understand the level of protection across our workforce and ensures vaccination records are up to date.

Vaccination remains a personal choice, but as healthcare professionals we all have a responsibility to do what we can to reduce the risk of transmitting infections to vulnerable patients and colleagues. By being vaccinated, you are helping to protect those in your care while also safeguarding your own health and wellbeing.

If you have received your flu vaccination outside the Trust, please complete our online notification form:

Complete the notification form

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