9 October 2020

Staff from across the Trust ask ‘do you know how to do it’ in the latest flu song; inspired by Saturday Night Fever.  

Maria O’Brien, CNWL’s Chief Nurse, said

“We want this year’s song to be memorable and I’ve always been a huge fan of the film and I really wanted to do this song.

“Behind the song and video is a serious message – it’s important all staff are vaccinated to protect themselves, their family and their patients against flu and to help keep those vulnerable to Covid-19 from getting the flu alongside it.

“Flu can be serious and even fatal, even for normally fit and well people, so that’s why the campaign is so important to protect ourselves and our patients.

“I want to send my apologies but deepest thanks to the Bee Gees who did know how to do it.”

The lyrics were re-written for CNWL by Andrew Lale, brother of Gill Case, CNWL’s Deputy Infection, Prevention and Control Director and recorded and performed by Andy Lale, CNWL’s Principle Arts Psychotherapist for South Westminster, together with Juraj Gregoric, a volunteer in the team.

Staff from across the Trust including Maria O’Brien, Chief Nurse and Dr Cornelius Kelly, Chief Medical Officer, lip-synced wearing wigs and costumes to stress the importance of having a flu jab.

Staff should call 020 3317 3350 to book their free flu jab with Occupational Health or see a local peer vaccinator.

The flu vaccination is safe and effective and must be given annually. It cannot give you the flu. It does not protect you from COVID-19 or seasonal coughs and colds, but it does give protection against the strains of flu virus that will be circulating this year.

How will I know if I have the flu or COVID-19?

Read our leaflet which explains the similarities and differences between flu and Covid-19 (opens pdf) 

The flu virus and COVID-19 have symptoms which overlap, such as a high temperature or persistent cough. It may be difficult to tell which virus you have. For this reason, it’s really important that you have a flu vaccination if you are eligible, and that you continue to follow the guidance on self-isolation and testing at nhs.uk/coronavirus if you have any of the symptoms of COVID-19. Like Covid-19 you can give the flu to your friends and family without symptoms

There has never been a more important time to make sure you, and those you care for, are protected against serious illnesses such as the flu. Where vaccines are available, it’s vital that we use them to help keep everyone safe.