2 November 2026

Northumbria Healthcare’s 24-hour jabathon has been a hit

A group of people stood in a line. They are smiling at the camera.

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust successfully vaccinated more than 800 members of staff during a recent festival-themed jabathon to launch its annual staff vaccination roll-out.

The event saw vaccination teams working round the clock across a full 24 hours to make it as easy as possible for staff on all shifts to receive their flu vaccination. From frontline clinical teams to support staff, colleagues took advantage of the extended access, demonstrating a strong commitment to keeping themselves and those they care for safe.

The jabathon is part of the trust’s ongoing efforts to improve staff wellbeing and reduce the impact of seasonal flu across its hospitals and community services. Every staff member vaccinated is another layer of protection for vulnerable patients, loved ones and the communities the trust serves helping reduce the spread of flu within the healthcare setting and beyond.

Danielle Robinson, immunisation lead said: “FluFest 2026 has set a new benchmark for our vaccination campaign. Delivering 859 vaccinations in a single 24-hour period, significantly exceeding activity achieved during the opening days of previous campaigns, demonstrates what can be achieved through innovation, collaboration, and a relentless focus on accessibility. We hope this will become a flagship event in our annual calendar as we continue to support and protect our workforce.

“Having the flu vaccine is not just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting everyone within the community. Together, this small action of getting vaccinated can reduce the spread of flu, keeping people well this winter.”

The flu vaccine remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against serious illness caused by influenza. While flu can be unpleasant for many people, it can lead to severe complications for those who are elderly, pregnant, immunocompromised or living with long-term health conditions.

As winter approaches, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is continuing to encourage all in the wider community who are eligible to have their free flu vaccine, this includes:

  • people aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027)
  • people aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
  • people who are pregnant
  • residents living in a care home
  • people who are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
  • people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
  • people aged 16 or over and rough sleeping or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
  • Frontline health care workers (the free vaccination in provided through your employer)

Those who aren’t eligible for the free vaccine can pay for one with a local pharmacy or through their GP.

Back to News Stories