Call to have flu vaccine

Advice on health

Monklands residents at increased risk of flu are being reminded to take up the offer of a free vaccination.

It comes as figures show that less than half of Lanarkshire residents eligible for the immunisation programme, which began in October, have so far had the flu jab.

A total of 41 per cent of those at risk from flu due to underlying health conditions have so far been vaccinated. The proportion rises to 47 per cent of pregnant women in the county, and 69 per cent of over-65s.

Dr Gregor Smith, who is Scotland’s deputy chief medical officer, is calling for those with health conditions such as heart problems, asthma or diabetes to ensure they are vaccinated, noting that flu cases can increase in January and February.

He said: “Cases of flu peak in the winter and more are likely to be seen over the coming weeks, so it’s important that people make an appointment with their GP practice as soon as they can.

“People with underlying conditions are extremely vulnerable to viruses such as this; so that’s why it’s so important that they get the vaccine now, as the health complications can be serious and in some cases people end up in hospital.

“If you are eligible to receive the vaccine and have not had it yet, definitely do so – it really is the best defence against flu.”

NHS Lanarkshire’s flu immunisation co-ordinator, Dr David Cromie, added: “If you have a health condition it’s so important that you receive the vaccine. It doesn’t take long and provides protection for up to a year.”