NHS healthcare workers receive free flu vaccinations. From left to right: Tim Spicer (GP at Richford Gate), James Cavanagh (GP at Brook Green Medical Centre), Cllr Vivienne Lukey and CCG Practice Nurse Vanessa Andreae
Hammersmith & Fulham Council is backing flu vaccinations for frontline medical workers to protect residents.
NHS healthcare workers and social care staff in H&F are being offered the free flu jab to protect themselves and those they care for against contracting the virus this winter.
Councillor Vivienne Lukey, H&F Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, visited Linden House last week to offer her support as NHS staff received their vaccinations.
“The more health workers that are vaccinated against the flu, the better we can protect the vulnerable members of our community with whom they come into contact,” said Cllr Lukey.
“In at-risk groups, such as young infants, the elderly, those with long-term medical conditions and pregnant women, the flu can lead to more serious illnesses, so it is imperative we minimise risk wherever we can.”
Dr Tim Spicer, vice chairman of H&F’s Health and Wellbeing Board added: “Despite how brilliant, dedicated and hard-working our frontline staff are, they can be passing on the flu virus before becoming symptomatic themselves.
“So as well as protecting patients, this also helps reduce staff sickness during the winter months, which are often the busiest months of the year.”
The free flu vaccination is also available to eligible residents. Adults will be able to get the vaccination at GP surgeries and some community pharmacies from October.
Children in school years 1 and 2 will be offered the vaccination at school in the form of a nasal spray, while children aged 2-4 years can get it at their GP practice.
H&F is determined to increase the uptake of the flu vaccination across the borough.
The best time to have the vaccination is in October to early November, however vaccines may still be available from your GP later in the flu season.
Find out more about flu and some common misconceptions about the vaccination .
