Respiratory Virus Plan

Introduction

Viral infections, including Flu, Covid, RSV and other emerging respiratory viruses of concern are easily transmitted and therefore pose a significant risk of transmission and associated complications to patients with underlying health conditions including; respiratory/ cardiac disease or immunosuppression, pregnant women, the very young and elderly

During the colder winter months there is a higher prevalence of Flu/RSV/other viruses; affecting health and social care systems. Each year the Trust plans for and responds to surges in demand of flu/CoVid/RSV/Other virus presentations. A robust vaccination programme is in place for staff (& where appropriate) patients, in order to reduce transmission and associated harm.

The staff vaccination programme will be delivered in line with the current national guidance; delivered by OH. A surge in any of the current known dominant viruses (Flu, CoVid-19, RSV etc) will require the introduction of special arrangements to ensure a coordinated and collaborative response; in order to ensure minimisation of spread and associated risk.

In order to protect both its patients and staff the Trust embarks on a yearly Flu vaccination programme.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of the plan is to:

• Provides an effective response to surge presentation
• Safeguard and maintain all essential services
• Safeguard staff & patients
• Maintains critical care service provision

Policy Details

See also:

• Occupational Health Vaccination Flu Programme Strategy
• National Flu Plan
• Internal Incident / Business Continuity Plans
• Operational Pressures Escalation Levels - (OPEL) Plan
• Communications Plan
• PHE Respiratory Viruses Policy
• Outbreak Policy
• CoVid Clinical Guidance
• IPC Isolation Policy
• National IPC Manual for England