Protecting our staff from influenza

May 2020

More than 9,000 staff have received their annual flu shot

Keeping our staff healthy during our response to COVID-19 is a priority for Sydney Local Health District.

With the winter influenza season approaching, it is important our community, including our staff, are protected from the influenza virus.

Influenza can be deadly for young children, the elderly and vulnerable in our community and each winter our hospitals see increased presentations and admissions from the flu.

Our vaccine teams have been working hard to vaccinate staff across our hospitals and health services, with more than 9,000 flu shots completed since April.

"With our health staff working hard to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community, they are also taking every precaution to help reduce the spread of flu. Staff flu vaccine rates have already passed 85 per cent in our high risk frontline areas," said the District's Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services, Ivanka Komusanac.

The flu vaccine is compulsory for all health care workers in high risk areas including intensive care, cancer, transplant, neonatal, labour wards.

"Current health reminders to wash your hands regularly, cough or sneeze into your elbow and stay home if you are sick are also critical for protection against the flu," said the District's Director of Public Health, Dr Leena Gupta.

"In addition, the best way to protect your family from flu is with an annual influenza vaccine – available to all and free to those most at-risk.

"A reminder that if you're feeling unwell with any symptoms – a sore throat, fever, cough or other respiratory symptoms – please go to your local COVID-19 testing clinic."

The flu vaccine is available through GPs and chemists and is free for all children aged from six months to five years of age, for pregnant women, Aboriginal people, those aged over 65, and anyone with conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.

Speak to your GP or chemist to check their vaccine stock and plan your appointment.