Decision details

Winter Flu Vaccinations

The Chief Executive advised that there was currently a shortage of flu vaccine for 65+ year olds in Stevenage, due to a supply problem caused by the Health Service reducing its vaccine supplier from five to a single supplier.  The problem did not relate to those who had pre-booked appointments for the vaccination, but could be problematic for those using an open access/walk-in service.  It was anticipated that the problem would be resolved in the next 3-4 weeks.

The Leader asked that a note be sent out to all Members of the Council advising them of the above situation, in case they were approached by residents regarding the matter.

The Executive also noted that the NHS was expecting another hard winter which would place an increased strain on its services during that period.  Accordingly, District/Borough Councils had been asked to support the initiative directing residents towards using the 118 and 999 telephone numbers in cases of dire need.

Brexit

The Chief Executive explained that, in preparation for any enquiries from the public, the SBC approach to Brexit would be to treat it as a business continuity issue.  A Sub-Group of SLT members would be established to develop the approach and report back to SLT on a fortnightly basis.  Appropriate cross-checking would be carried out with other members of the Hertfordshire Resilience Forum.