Highland NHS workers are urged to take up flu vaccination; vaccine 'is the most effective way to protect you from the flu'

NHS Highland staff who are returning after the October break are being encouraged to get their flu jabs if they have not already done so.

The organisation's staff flu vaccination programme is well under way and already the number who have been vaccinated is more than 2000 – greater than this time last year.

All staff are being reminded that the vaccine is still available and Dr Ken Oates, flu co-ordinator and consultant in public health for NHS Highland, said: "We are asking health and social care staff across NHS Highland to consider the vulnerability of the people in their care and to take steps to protect those individuals as well as themselves, their colleagues, and their family by getting the flu vaccination.

"Uptake at the start of this campaign has been good but we want to maintain that so we are making a plea to all healthcare workers, especially those with direct patient contact, to consider getting vaccinated as soon as possible."

Professor Boyd Robertson, NHS Highland's interim chairman, has also added his voice to the campaign after he received his vaccination earlier this month.

He said: "The vaccine is the most effective way to protect you from the flu. For staff across NHS Highland, it is not only protecting them but also their patients and their families.

"Healthcare workers are more likely to get exposed to the flu virus so I really would encourage colleagues across NHS Highland to get the vaccination early to ensure they are protected.

"I had my vaccine a couple of weeks ago. It was quick, painless and I am confident that it offers me the best protection against the virus."

Vaccination trolleys are available in most locations across the region and occupational health is also holding clinics for staff.

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