TWO ‘flu angels’ from the North West Ambulance Service have been out and about across Cheshire on a decommissioned ambulance dubbed the ‘flu bus’, delivering vaccinations to busy ambulance staff.

Paramedic Kelsey Morgan and emergency medical technician Sarah Jane Pettitt – along with help from paramedic Debbie Stephens – have delivered around 140 vaccines so far and will be continuing at convenient times for staff.

The flu vaccination is most effective way for people to protect themselves and their families against the influenza virus and healthcare workers are entitled to a free jab each year.

Advanced paramedic Rob Palmer said: “Our frontline staff work very closely with poorly and vulnerable patients and are more likely to be exposed to flu – and to pass it on.

"It’s really important for them to protect themselves and their patients by getting the flu vaccination.

“It can be a challenge for staff to attend designated flu clinics around their busy shifts so this is an excellent way to bring the vaccinations to them.”

Kelsey and Sarah, who are both expecting babies and therefore currently on light duties, have been turning up at hospitals and ambulance stations working during different shift times to offer the vaccine to as many staff as possible.

Kelsey said: “This is really well received by staff who often struggle to find time to have their flu vaccination.

“The viruses that cause flu can change every year, which means is why it’s really important for staff to get their flu jab annually and the more staff we can get protected, the better.”

The flu bus will be in action whilst supplies last and staff are also able to book in time slots to be vaccinated.

All NWAS staff are entitled to the flu vaccination and clinics and initiatives are run across the region to target as many staff as possible.