Work Related Vaccinations

University of Edinburgh employees are potentially exposed to many infections through the course of their work. Where a risk of infection is recognised, and where effective vaccines exist, immunisations will be offered to staff that are not already immune. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH) risk assessments for your work area will highlight what hazards you are working with and should indicate if your require vaccination.

In some situations you may need to provide evidence of protective immunity e.g. diphtheria, Hepatitis B. You should discuss this with your line manager in the first instance before contacting the Occupational Health Service (OHS). If you have any questions at all it is advised that you telephone the OHU and speak to one of the advisors who will be able to advise the most appropriate course of action for you. For example you may have already had previous vaccinations and you may only require a blood test to establish immunity.

You should also be aware that some vaccines are given as part of a course over a period of time and that this course cannot be accelerated so you need to consider this when planning your work or research study. Some blood tests e.g. diphtheria, are not done locally by NHS Lothian and can take up to 12 weeks to come back so again consider this when planning your activities. If, as part of your vaccination schedule, you require a blood test to check immunity you will receive a copy of the laboratory report to your home address for your records.