Flu vaccine for poultry workers and bird handlers: employer pack
A reminder that NHS Scotland is offering the free flu vaccine to those at risk of exposure to avian (bird) flu. While the vaccine doesn't protect against bird flu, it can reduce the risk of a new flu virus forming which could happen if someone is exposed to flu and bird flu at the same time.
Update on avian (bird) flu
The avian influenza dead wild bird surveillance scheme has recently detected Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in a dead mute swan in Fife. This new case is the first detection of HPAI H5N1 in wild birds since November 2023.
Since October 2024, there has only been six cases of HPAI detected in Scotland, and all have been of the H5N5 strain.
You can view the latest case numbers in wild birds here.
In Scotland there’s been no outbreaks on poultry farms in Scotland so far, however there has been 16 cases in England.
Who is eligible?
The flu vaccine is being offered to those who:
- work at, or regularly visit, poultry units and poultry processing units (including inspection staff)
- cull and/or clean at confirmed bird flu outbreak premises
- handle live unwell birds where bird flu is suspected
- are involved in the collection of wild or domestic bird carcasses where bird flu is suspected, including sea birds
Public Health Scotland has developed a range of resources that can be used by you to help promote vaccination to your workforce including:
Please help us and encourage your staff to get vaccinated. As well as reducing the risk of a new flu virus forming when a person is exposed to flu and bird flu at the same time, the vaccine protects against seasonal flu, which will help keep your workforce healthy and reduce staff illness.
Appointments can be booked online or by calling 0800 030 8013. Alternatively drop-in clinics are available in some areas. If eligible, you can get the vaccine until 31 March 2025.
Please feel free to share these resources with any relevant channels or networks.
Your support is much appreciated.