Flu campaign launches next week

September 26, 2018

Our annual flu campaign launches next week with drop in sessions for vaccines at the following locations:

Monday 1 October – 10am–3.30pm

Occupational health department, Sandwell Hospital

Wednesday 3 October – 10am–3.30pm

Old foot health clinical, near main reception at City Hospital

As you probably know the flu vaccination changes every year to protect against the strains of flu the UK is expecting to have.  Generally the vaccine is well matched and protects against the flu viruses we experience in the UK, but last year we had a new variant strain of H3N2 flu, nicknamed the ‘aussie flu’ as it hit Australia very hard.  The trivalent vaccination did not protect against this strain in 2017 but the good news is that this year’s vaccine will.  It offers protection against four different strains of the virus, more than ever before.

We also have a brand new theme this year, ‘May the 4 be with you’ a play on the Star Wars quote to celebrate the four elements of protection you will get by having the vaccination. Please look out across the organisation for our eye-catching flu posters starring many of your colleagues as well as our executive team.

This year the flu campaign will run for six weeks only so make sure you have your vaccination early. This will not only protect you, your family, your colleagues and our patients, but you will also be entered into a draw to win some fantastic prizes, including:

• £300 Love2Shop vouchers
• An extra annual leave day
• Amazon firestick
• Google home

Please note that if you have already received your flu vaccine from your GP or pharmacy, you can still count towards helping us reach our target and also enter our prize draw – simply complete the form on Connect to let us know.