You may have seen in the media over the weekend that the flu season has arrived a month early, and the virus is more severe than usual. Here at CHFT, we've also seen the number of patients we're caring for with flu significantly increase over the past week.
Today, Student Nurse, Anamika Sadanandan, shares her story of why she’s had the flu vaccine.
“Being able to experience different work settings within the Trust has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my nursing journey so far. Working across different departments and meeting people from all walks of life has shown me just how important it is to stay healthy, not only for ourselves, but for the patients who rely on us every single day.
“As winter approaches, we all know how quickly flu can spread. Seeing how easily a simple illness can affect staffing levels, patient care, and even morale on the wards made me realise that prevention really does start with us. I wanted to make sure I was doing everything I could to protect my patients and my colleagues, so I decided to get my flu vaccine.
“It only took a few minutes, but it gave me real peace of mind. Knowing that I’ve done my part to reduce the risk of passing flu on to those who are most vulnerable feels like an important part of my role as a nurse in training.
“I hope to encourage my fellow students and team members to do the same. The flu jab isn’t just about protecting ourselves; it’s about showing care, responsibility, and teamwork which are the very values that make our hospital community strong.
“So, this winter, if you haven’t already, roll up your sleeve. Let’s protect ourselves, our patients, and each other because together, we can make this a flu-safe season.”
Anamika has been a student in Endoscopy and will shortly be qualifying as a nurse here at CHFT.
How to get your flu jab
We have an amazing peer immuniser community. Find your nearest on the flu pages of the intranet. Winter vaccines and self-declarations - CHFT Intranet
CRH
Main Outpatient Department - Just tell a colleague you'd like to arrange for your flu vaccine and the team will help.
Antenatal clinic
- Mondays 07:15 to 19.15
- Thursdays 07:15 to 19:15
HRI
Pop along to the Acute Floor at HRI or to the Clinical Education Team office in the sub-basement between 10:00 and 15:00 Monday to Friday. The team will vaccinate you, or if they need to collect more vaccines, will book you an appointment.
Women's Health
- Tuesdays 08:00 – 16:00
- Thursdays 08:00 – 16:00
- Fridays 08:00 – 16:00
Out of hours
Please speak to a member of the site team.