NHS staff urged to have swine flu jab (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Frontline workers encouraged to get vaccinated

8:42am Wednesday 18th November 2009 in News By Claire Lomax

Health bosses at NHS Bradford and Airedale are urging thousands of frontline members of staff to have a swine flu vaccination.

The health trust says vaccinating staff is an important step in stopping the spread of the H1N1 swine flu virus. Staff from Windhill Green Medical Practice in Thackley Old Road, Shipley, were yesterday receiving their jabs.

Linda Scott, vaccination lead for NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “I would strongly urge all frontline staff to have their vaccination – I’ve had mine.”

Dr Anita Sims, director of public health in Bradford said: “Based on evidence from independent scientific experts, the vaccine significantly reduces the chance of getting the virus.

“Therefore it is vital that staff with existing health conditions, or who work closely with patients who have underlying health issues, such as asthma and heart problems, get a swine flu jab when it is offered to them.”

During the rest of November, GPs in Bradford and Airedale will be contacting pregnant women and patients with existing health conditions, who are eligible for the vaccine, to invite them to vaccination clinics.

e-mail: claire.lomax@telegraphandargus.co.uk