Updated 23 October 2025
In autumn/winter 2025/26, all Cardiff and Vale University Health Board employees will be eligible for the flu vaccination.
Uptake of the flu vaccine among staff last winter was less than 40% which is some way off where we need it to be. We need to increase our uptake to prevent widespread infection and protect ourselves, our patients and our loved ones.
A host of drop-in sessions are being organised for colleagues to receive their flu vaccine. This list will be constantly updated throughout the coming weeks.
All colleagues are entitled to 30 minutes protected time to get their flu vaccine.
Here are the confirmed sessions so far (no need to book an appointment - just turn up):
**Please note, drop-ins for those aged 65 and over will start from October 1**
UHW Staff Haven (8.30am-6pm unless otherwise stated)
UHW (vaccination teams wil roam around the hospital)
UHL Board Room (8.30am-6pm unless otherwise stated)
Cardiff Royal Infirmary (CRI) - Group Education Room (9am-5pm)
Barry Hospital - Mary Lennox (9.15am-4.45pm)
St David's - Conference Room (9am-5pm)
From Monday, September 22, Occupational Health based in Woodland House will offer open-access flu vaccination sessions for all staff from the ground floor of Woodland House between 8.30am-12.30pm and 1pm-4pm.
As NHS staff, you play a vital role in protecting the health of our patients, colleagues, and the wider community. With flu season approaching, getting your flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to keep everyone safe.
Protect your patients: Many patients we care for are vulnerable, including the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with long-term conditions. The flu can be life-threatening for them. Even if you feel well, you could carry and pass on the virus without knowing. By getting vaccinated, you reduce the risk of transmitting flu to those who are most at risk.
Protect yourself and your colleagues: Every winter, flu puts pressure on our services. When NHS staff are off sick, it becomes harder to provide safe, effective care. The flu vaccine helps reduce your chances of catching the virus and needing time off, keeping you well and helping your team stay fully staffed.
It’s quick, safe and effective: The flu vaccine has an excellent safety record and is updated annually to match the most common strains. You can’t catch flu from the vaccine, and most side effects are mild and short-lived. Protection develops within about two weeks.
Do your part this winter: With flu likely to circulate again, it's more important than ever to reduce the spread of respiratory illness. Getting vaccinated against flu is a simple action with powerful benefits - for your patients, your team, and yourself.
The flu vaccine is free for all NHS staff. Make it a priority.
Finally, thanks to all colleagues who completed a recent survey around barriers to accessing the flu vaccine. Your responses are informing our approach to this year's vaccination programme.