With winter illness season around the corner, our Vaccine Campaign has kicked off and we're urging all staff and volunteers to protect themselves so we can all protect our patients, our families and each other.
Save the date! We have secured a number of flu vaccination clinics at Trinity Hospice. Each takes place in the Eaves Room in the Learning & Research Centre:
- 15th October – 7.30am-12noon
- 23rd October – 1pm-4pm
- 13th November – 1pm-3pm
All colleagues, whether they work in clinical or non-clinical areas, are strongly encouraged to get their flu vaccines this winter to help us to protect ourselves and those we come into contact with from serious illness.
Worried about getting your flu vaccine?
We know vaccinations can make some people anxious. That's why we've put together some FAQs around having your annual flu vaccine.
I'm in a high-risk group. Can I get my flu vaccine at Trinity Hospice?
No. The vaccine we offer at the hospice is a lower dose of the vaccine offered by GPs. If you are over the age of 65 or in a known risk group, you should contact your GP and arrange to have the correct dose for you which will be more effective for you and your age or vulnerabilities to winder viruses.
I am over the age of 65. Can I get my flu vaccine at Trinity Hospice?
No. The vaccine we offer at the hospice is a lower dose of the vaccine offered by GPs. If you are over the age of 65 or in a known risk group, you should contact your GP and arrange to have the correct dose for you which will be more effective for you and your age or vulnerabilities to winder viruses.
I get ill when I have vaccines, Will I get ill from my flu vaccine this year?
The flu vaccine is not a live vaccine, in that it does not contain elements of the virus as part of the immunisation. Therefore, you cannot catch flu from the flu vaccine.
You may experience mild cold-like symptoms from having this vaccine, as well as redness, swelling and/or soreness at the injection site. It's important to keep hydrated and take paracetamol if you feel any pain or cold-like symptoms.
How do we stop winter viruses spreading at the hospice?
Winter is a known pressure on our services, as we are caring for people who might be more poorly with winter bugs and staff absence due to sickness may be higher. That's why our Winter Vaccine Programme is our first line of defence, protecting Our People against winter viruses, ensuring they are fit to come to work and care for those who need us.
It's important to keep work spaces well ventilated, and to always wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day and make use of the alcohol hand gel after interactions and when entering and leaving patient areas.
If you cough or blow your nose, always catch it, bin it, kill it!
More information about this year’s Vaccine Campaign will be available in the Staff Bulletin, on the Staff Facebook Page and in staff areas soon.
