Domiciliary care workers encouraged to take up their winter vaccines offer

25 October 2023

Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) is reminding those who provide domiciliary care that they are eligible for a free flu and COVID-19 autumn booster vaccination this winter.

The social care sector has a crucial role to play in caring for people at home and preventing hospital admissions over the winter period, particularly for older people.

Domiciliary care workers can access a free flu vaccine through community pharmacies. Some community pharmacies are also offering the COVID-19 vaccine and both vaccines can be administered safely at the same time. 

The health board is also inviting domiciliary care workers to receive their flu and COVID-19 autumn booster at a local vaccination centre or they can contact their GP practice.

Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “Those who provide domiciliary care for people in their homes are an essential part of the healthcare system and it is important they have the protection provided by the flu and COVID-19 booster vaccinations this winter.

“We know that vaccination can be effective in reducing the spread of diseases in care settings. That is why it is not only vitally important that people more at risk of developing complications from flu and COVID-19 receive the vaccines, but that those working with and alongside them are also protected.”

Domiciliary care workers in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire can visit hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/pharmacy/seasonal-flu-vaccines to find their local pharmacy providing the flu vaccine and contact Hywel Dda UHB’s communications hub if they have not received or wish to rebook an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment on 0300 303 8322 or ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk