Health chiefs urge uptake of flu jabs

Warning after cases of infection doubled last winter

Monklands residents who are eligible for the flu vaccine are being urged to act early and get protected ahead of winter.

With the number of reported cases of flu more than doubling last winter, NHS advice is to make the vaccination a priority as flu can be serious for those at risk and result in complications that can lead to hospitalisation.

The vaccine will be offered to around two-and-a-half million people this year, including those with health conditions, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and children aged two to11.

NHS Scotland workers and carers are also being offered the vaccine to help stop the spread of the virus to the vulnerable.

David Cromie, consultant in public health medicine for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Flu is highly infectious. Symptoms come on quickly and can hit anyone, even those who are generally fit and healthy. In the most serious cases, flu can bring on pneumonia, or other serious infections which can, in extreme cases, result in death.

“That is why it is so important that everyone who is eligible for the flu vaccine takes up their offer.

“The flu vaccine is the best available protection against the flu virus. It’s very safe, only takes a few minutes and will last around a year.

“By getting the vaccine as early as you can, you can protect yourself against flu ahead of winter.”

Health secretary Jeane Freeman said: “This year we want to ensure as many people as possible are protected from flu ahead of winter hitting.

“The vaccine is safe, effective, and remains the best protection against the flu virus.

“It is important to stress that the flu vaccine offered to those aged 65 to 74 this winter still provides protection.

“Last winter was a particularly bad year for flu, with a rise in the number of cases and hospitalisations. Flu can be extremely serious for those who are vulnerable, and is very infectious.

“We can best protect the people of Scotland by encouraging everyone eligible to get vaccinated early.

“Not only will you protect yourself, but you’ll also be playing a part in helping stop the spread of the virus this winter.”

For further information on the vaccine, visit readyforflu.scot or contact NHS Inform on 0800 22 44 88.