NHS HDL(2000) 27
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NHS HDL(2000) 27 |
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Health
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The Department's letters of 31 October (SEHD/CMO (2000) 9) and 4 September (HDL (2000) 9) provided information and advice on the vaccination arrangements for health and social care staff against influenza. As a result of isolated supply and co-ordination concerns, our September letter asked those co-ordinating these arrangements for health care staff to delay completion of immunisation sessions not already arranged until December. It is clear that isolated supply difficulties are now resolved and stock of vaccine is adequate to cover a high uptake within staff groups. Those responsible for staff vaccination programmes can now therefore complete staff vaccination sessions as soon as possible. In line with this, they should advise NHS Trust Chief Pharmacists of their vaccine requirements for this purpose as soon as these are known. Because of pressure on the storage facilities for the centrally-held vaccine, it is particularly important that those managing this stock are aware of vaccine needs as soon as possible, to allow them to organise replacement stock as necessary. In line with the general thrust of this year's campaign, it is our intention that NHS employers should offer staff involved in the delivery of care and support to patients flu vaccination as part of the winter planning arrangements. In addition, private and voluntary sector health care employers, as well as social care employers, should consider offering immunisation to staff involved in the delivery of care and support to patients and clients. Where these staff have not yet been offered vaccine, we would urge occupational health teams and other employers to arrange this as soon as possible. |
Addressees For information
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As
per our September letter, we would be grateful if Chief Executives of
Health Boards and local authorities could ensure that this HDL is copied
to all health and social care employers in their area.
Yours sincerely
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