Figures published by Public Health England (PHE) show that more than 340,000 frontline healthcare workers in England had a flu vaccination in September and October this year. The figures reveal that 36.8% of the frontline healthcare workforce have been vaccinated against flu already this winter, compared to 35% of workers who were vaccinated in the same period in 2013 to 2014.
While the data indicates a positive start to the flu vaccination programme for healthcare workers in England, flu experts are warning that more workers need to take up the vaccine to help protect vulnerable patients this winter and help save lives, while keeping NHS services running as normal.
Professor Nick Phin, flu expert for Public Health England, said: “Last year’s flu season was less severe than some we have seen but flu is an unpredictable virus and it is impossible to predict the impact that the disease will have on our communities and health services this winter, as new strains can circulate each year with varying impact.
“This reinforces the need for annual flu vaccination among key groups including health and social care workers. The vaccine is safe and effective and cannot give you flu.”
Professor Keith Willet, National Clinical Director for Acute Care, NHS England, said: “As professionals it is part of our duty of care to patients or residents to do everything in our power to protect them against infection, including being immunised against flu.
Professor Keith Willet, National Clinical Director for Acute Care, NHS England, said: “As professionals it is part of our duty of care to patients or residents to do everything in our power to protect them against infection, including being immunised against flu.
