Action to boost flu protection this winter

Action to boost flu protection this winter

Knowsley's Health and Wellbeing Board has supported a drive to increase the uptake of flu vaccinations this winter.

Following a review of seasonal flu preparedness, the Board approved four key recommendations aimed at increasing vaccination rates and preventing the spread of respiratory infections in the community.

The Board is urging all local organisations, including NHS providers, social care groups, community bodies, and employers, to support the campaign, and calls on them to:

• Protect vulnerable residents by promoting flu vaccination among the local eligible population, including elderly residents, pregnant women, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
• Safeguard essential services by offering flu vaccination within the health and social care workforce to protect patients, clients, and colleagues, thereby preventing staff illness and mortality associated with the virus.

In addition to vaccination, the Board emphasised the crucial role of general public health measures:

• Infection Prevention: Actively promoting simple, effective measures-like frequent hand washing, good cough etiquette, and staying home when symptomatic-to prevent the spread of all respiratory infections within local organizations and communities.
• Promoting the 'Make Every Contact Count' initiative to educate residents on flu prevention and ensure the appropriate use of health services, stressing the importance of self-care for minor ailments to keep services available for those who need them most.

The Board will monitor progress on these four action areas throughout the flu season.

Residents eligible for a free flu vaccine are encouraged to book their appointment with their GP or local pharmacy as soon as possible. Find out who is eligible for a free flu vaccination.

The Knowsley Health and Wellbeing Board is a partnership that brings together key leaders from the NHS, local government, and the voluntary sector to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents and reduce health inequalities.