January 2, 2014 3.56 pm This story is over 121 months old

Lincolnshire hospitals rank top for vaccine uptake

Staying protected: The uptake in staff getting the flu jab in Lincolnshire hospitals is one of the best in the country.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust is in the top five nationally to improve the uptake of flu jab rates for front line staff.

Between September 1, 2013, and January 2, 2014, ULHT vaccinated over 74% of its front line staff against flu.

This is nearly twice the percentage vaccinated than in the previous year, and part of the highest ever national percentage of front line workers protected from flu.

Stephen Kelly, Occupational Health Services Nurse and Business Manager said: “Staff across United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust have been encouraged to get their flu injection.

“Flu can be potentially life threatening for some people, so it is important that members of staff are protected against the virus for their own benefit and that of our patients.

“Vulnerable residents of Lincolnshire and surrounding areas are also being encouraged to get vaccinated against flu.

“The injection is free from your GP if you are, pregnant, over 65 years, have a long term condition (such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease or multiple sclerosis), or are a carer for a person in these categories.”

He added: “It is also important to remember to have a good hand hygiene regime to protect yourself against viruses.

““Catch it, bin it, kill it” – can protect you and those around you from the spread of germs. This means you should carry tissues with you, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing with a tissue then dispose of it in a bin.”