Scotland is currently experiencing an upsurge in flu cases.

The seasonal flu vaccine is the best defence against flu. As healthcare workers, we have a duty to protect those in our care.

To help ensure that as many of our staff are vaccinated as possible, Occupational Health will be visiting wards and departments in the three acute hospitals to offer the vaccine to those who have not yet received it on the following dates –

• Tuesday 22 January– University Hospital Hairmyres – 08:30 – 16:30
• Wednesday 23 January– University Hospital Monklands – 08:30 – 16:30
• Thursday 24 January– University Hospital Wishaw – 08:30 – 16:30
• Monday 28 January– University Hospital Wishaw – 08:30 – 16:30
• Tuesday 29 January– University Hospital Monklands – 08:30 – 16:30
• Wednesday 30 January– University Hospital Hairmyres – 08:30 – 16:30

You can also attend a flu vaccination clinic. Details of clinic times can be found on the Salus pages on FirstPort (http://firstport2/staff-support/salus-occupational-health-and-safety/flu/Pages/Staff%20Flu%20Vaccinations.aspx)

You can also arrange a mutually convenient time with a peer immuniser in your workplace. Details of all peer immunisers can be found on FirstPort (http://firstport2/staff-support/salus-occupational-health-and-safety/SPI/default.aspx).

Remember:
• The vaccine is safe
• The vaccine cannot give you flu
• If not protected, you can carry the virus and pass it on to vulnerable patients or your own family and friends
• The vaccine protects against four strains of flu
• It reduces the risk of serious complications in high risk groups
• It is free

Thanks for your support.