Abstract

In the UK, the Department of Health (DH) recommends annual immunisation of healthcare workers against influenza1 to reduce the likelihood of nosocomial influenza transmission, particularly to vulnerable patients. However, although vaccination services to meet this need are available and provided free of charge to the recipient, uptake is often poor.2 Here we review the evidence for reduced influenza transmission and other benefits with seasonal vaccination of healthcare workers, and examine what influences vaccine uptake.