Introduction
Influenza (Flu) is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract (nose, mouth, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs) characterised by:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fatigue
Flu is easily transmitted and those with underlying health conditions such as respiratory/ cardiac disease or immunosuppression, including pregnant women, the very young and elderly are also at risk from complications
Flu prevalence is likely to occur during the colder winter months; affecting health and social care systems. Each year the Trust plans for and responds to surges in demand of flu presentation; whilst ensuring a robust programme is in place for staff vaccination, in order to protect staff and patients. The staff vaccination programme is detailed in the OH vaccination strategy. It is particularly important this year as CoVid presents an additional risk due to potential for resurgence (with no vaccination) alongside seasonable influenza. A surge in both Flu CoVid-19 will require the introduction of special arrangements to ensure a coordinated and proportionate response; ensuring minimisation of risk, effective communications and inter-agency/divisional working at all levels.
In order to protect both its patients and staff the Trust embarks on a yearly Flu vaccination programme.
Policy Details
| Download: | N/A |
| Compiled by: | Claire O’Brien, Head of Emergency Preparedness & Resilience |
| Ratified by: | Management Board / Executive Board |
| Date Ratified: | October 2020 |
| Date Issued: | October 2020 |
| Review Date: | October 2021 |
| Target Audience: | All staff |
| Contact name: | Claire O’Brien, Head of Emergency Preparedness & Resilience |
See also:
- Occupational Health Vaccination Flu Programme Strategy (2020)
- National Flu Plan (2020)
- Internal Incident Plan
- Business Continuity Plan
- Operational Pressures Escalation Levels (OPEL) Plan
- Communications Plan
- Respiratory Viruses Policy
- Outbreak Policy
- CoVid Plan (2020)
- IPC Isolation Policy (2020)