Chief Executive's column - November 2021

As we approach winter in the NHS we start our staff vaccination programmes, which usually just includes the influenza (flu) jab. However, this year we are also encouraging our staff to get their COVID-19 booster too, to boost their immunity, to help protect patients, staff and their families from both viruses.

Last winter due to mask-wearing, lockdowns, social distancing, and restricted international travel the number of people who caught flu was extremely low, which means there is likely to be a lower level of population immunity against flu this year. Now most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, this will be the first winter when the flu virus (and other respiratory viruses) will circulate alongside COVID-19.

The flu vaccine is safe and effective and offered every year on the NHS to help protect people at risk of getting seriously ill from flu. It’s best to have the flu jab in the autumn or early winter before flu starts spreading. You can read more about the flu vaccine on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine

As time goes on, more people are becoming eligible for their COVID-19 booster, so with winter approaching fast, it’s a good idea to make the appointment. Here’s the NHS website page for further details www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine

We spend more time indoors, with the weather being colder, so regularly testing yourself for COVID-19 is essential, to help stop the spread. Free lateral flow tests can be ordered from www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests or collected from your local pharmacy. And of course, if you have symptoms of COVID-19, then you need a PCR test and to follow the latest guidance on self-isolating.

Where possible please try to ensure you maintain social distancing, open windows when meeting indoors, wash your hands often, follow guidance on wearing face coverings and remember: HANDS FACE SPACE. There’s more advice available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Winter also brings other illnesses like colds and stomach bugs, which can usually be treated at home or by visiting your chemist. Pharmacists are trained clinicians who provide expert advice on how to help manage illnesses, as well as offering guidance on the best treatments.

We also have NHS 111 and NHS 111 online, free services available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call 111 from a mobile or landline to speak to an advisor to get help or type in 111.nhs.uk on your phone or device and press the green start button. These services offer advice for urgent, but not life-threatening symptoms. Always contact NHS 111 first, it can save you time as they can book you an appointment at a local health facility.

Boost your immunity this winter and help protect Lincolnshire.