Staff encouraged to get flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to protect themselves and those they care for
With the sunny days of summer now behind us, colleagues across BSW are being reminded of the importance of receiving flu and COVID-19 vaccinations so they can stay fit and healthy over the coming autumn and winter months.
For some people flu and COVID-19 can be serious, and health or social care workers are more likely to be exposed to these viruses. With winter on the way, it’s time for colleagues across BSW to top up their immunity with an autumn COVID-19 booster and an annual flu vaccine so they can keep themselves and those they care for safe.
More people get these viruses over winter, which is why it’s important that health and social care workers get their flu and COVID-19 autumn vaccines as soon as possible. Vaccines offer the best protection against getting seriously ill from flu and COVID-19 and spreading it to others, including their colleagues, the people they care for and friends and family.
As there is such a large and varied workforce across BSW, colleagues are advised to check intranets, internal emails and staff notice boards to find out more about accessing these important vaccines.
Some colleagues may not be invited for a vaccination appointment directly unless they are clinically eligible, so – if this is the case – we would encourage all staff to request vaccination either via their registered GP practice or by booking an appointment on the National Booking System.
Colleagues can self-declare as health and social care workers when booking appointments. If possible, they should take their ID badges along with them to their vaccination appointments.
We encourage all health and social care workers to inform their employers when they have been vaccinated.
Due to the national accelerated programme, colleagues are encouraged to get vaccinations before 31st October if at all possible.