A number of nurses working at government health centres who spoke to The Malta Independent said that it was through information disseminated in the media that they learned that the flu vaccination campaign is to start on 3 November.
The vaccination is given to certain patients free of charge and the service is to start on 3 November and end on 22 November.
Nurses told this newsroom that they were surprised to learn from a press release published in various sections of the media (directed at the public) that the service is starting soon, and are concerned because it will lead to an increase in patient numbers at polyclinics.
"Had we not spotted the government's press release, we wouldn't have known until nearer the date, since no circular has been issued to nurses in a bid to prepare us," the nurses said. Normally, they explained, a circular is issued some time before the campaign starts.
This newsroom is informed that a meeting is to take place as late as tomorrow or Tuesday, only a few days before the service begins.
Last Tuesday, the government issued a press release announcing that flu jabs will be given free of charge at government health centres between 3 and 22 November.
The nursing union, MUMN, confirmed that no circular had been issued to nurses regarding the seasonal influenza vaccine campaign.
Health Secretariat says nurses were informed before publication of press release
Meanwhile, the Health Secretariat said that the "Department of Health clarifies that the nurses involved in the delivery of the immunisation service were fully informed about the service of influenza vaccines before the press release was issued by the government, with their rosters being planned accordingly to ensure a smooth immunisation service across polyclinics."
However, the secretariat did not specify exactly when nurses were given the information.
Information on vaccine service
Most local councils and a number of family doctors are participating in the vaccination campaign. The following groups can receive the vaccine free of charge: all those aged 55 and over; children aged between six months and four years, eleven months; those of any age suffering from chronic diseases of the lungs, heart, liver or kidney; diabetes mellitus or any immunodeficiency conditions, including HIV and AIDS.
In the case of those below 55 years of age, evidence of one of the above conditions needs to be confirmed by presenting a Schedule V Control Card or a recent medical certificate.
Those aged over 55 years who have already registered with their local councils or their family doctor should wait for notification from their respective council or doctor and should not go to a health centre.
Carers of people who are bedbound or otherwise unable to leave their home should call the MMDNA office on 2138 7526 between 11 am and 12.30 pm or 2 and 3.30 pm, Monday to Saturday so that the vaccination can be given at home by an MMDNA nurse.
Vaccination from health centres will take place on Monday to Saturday between 10am and 12 noon. There will be afternoon sessions at Mosta, Floriana and Paola Health Centres from 1pm to 7pm, Monday to Saturday.
An identity card has to be produced and, in the case of children, the immunisation record book/card must be shown.