For some, flu and COVID-19 are unpleasant illnesses. But for many, particularly those with
certain health conditions, they can be very dangerous and even life threatening. Every winter, thousands die from flu and people can still get very ill or die from COVID-19. Catching both viruses at the same time increases the risk of serious illness even further. Vaccinations are our best defence against flu and COVID-19 ahead of what could be a very challenging winter, and with the potential for new COVID-19 variants to increase the risk of infection.
As frontline health or social care professionals, you’re more likely to be exposed to these
viruses, and of course, they can also be passed on to the people you care for, including care
home residents, those with weakened immune systems and underlying health conditions.
Those who work with individuals most at risk are encouraged to get both their flu and Covid
vaccination.
The NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board understand and appreciate the important role that voluntary organisations play in the healthcare and social support system in Leeds and the help they offer individuals and communities that are at greater risk of getting seriously sick or passing away due to illnesses. They are committed to helping non-profit organisations ensure their staff can get vaccinated against Covid and flu to safeguard their own health and the health of the people they assist.
Organisations should identify and support staff who are working in front line patient contact roles to get vaccinated.
As a health and social care worker, if you are advised by your employer to utilise the NHS
complementary scheme you may need to present proof of your employment at your local GP
or pharmacy when receiving the vaccine. If you are asked to provide proof, some of the things
you could use are:
• a letter from your employer
• an ID badge
• a payslip
Members of staff will be able to find out more information about both vaccines by visiting
www.nhs.uk/flujab and www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.
Where to get the flu vaccine
Eligible people can get their NHS flu vaccine from 3 October 2024 (1 September 2024 if
pregnant) at:
• their registered GP surgery
• a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination (if aged 18 or over)
• some maternity services (if pregnant)
People do not have to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment.
Find out more about the flu vaccine and how to get it
How to book the COVID-19 vaccine
Eligible people can get their COVID-19 vaccine from 3 October 2024 at:
• their registered GP surgery if the surgery has opted into the COVID-19 programme.
Your GP surgery will be able to confirm.
• book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment online – this is through the National
Booking Service
• go to a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site
• Call NHS 119
When to call 119 – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
People do not have to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment.
