OAPs struggle for a f lu jab as NHS hotlines are swamped

PENSIONERS are being told they cannot book flu jabs because of excessive demand – despite Nicola Sturgeon urging them to ensure they get the vaccine before winter.

Concerns have been raised that health boards are unable to cope with the number of people looking to get the jab.

One health board yesterday issued an apology after people were unable to get through to its booking line for several days in a row – with some getting a message to hang up and try again another time.

Complaints have also been made about elderly people facing difficulty making bookings in other parts of the country.

A mass vaccination campaign has been launched to protect the most vulnerable amid fears of a winter

Covid-19 upsurge. In total, the aim is to vaccinate more than two million people, an increase of 800,000 on last year.

The scope of the annual vaccination drive has been widened because of the threat of serious complications and a higher risk of death posed by catching both diseases.

Adam Stachura, Age Scotland’s head of policy and communications, said: ‘It is fantastic news that the Scottish Government have extended the eligibility for the free flu jab to all over 55s, but the increased demand seems to be causing early challenges.

‘Age Scotland’s helpline has been hearing of more and more older people who are really struggling to book in for their vaccination as it seems the phone lines to the advertised central numbers or their GP are constantly jammed. This is leading to increasing levels of frustration and anxiety from those unable to get through.

‘It is really important that people aren’t put off getting their flu jab and stick with it.’

NHS Fife sent out letters last Friday asking people to call a central bookings hotline.

However, the health board yesterday apologised after large numbers of people raised concerns about being unable to get through. A recorded message told them there had been ‘exceptionally high’ call volumes - and advising them to try again another time.

Gloria Gibson, 70, from Leven in Fife, said she has been unable to get through to the line despite trying since Friday to book an appointment for her and husband Harry, 71, who has suffered a heart attack and gets the vaccine every year.

She said: ‘We started hitting the phone line, up to Friday at five o’clock, then Monday, Tuesday and today and we couldn’t get anything.’

A first wave of people will be able to get immunised for flu from October, including those over the age of 65, all primary school children and children aged two to five.

Also included is anyone with an eligible health condition, pregnant women, healthcare workers, unpaid and young carers, those living in the same home as people previously shielding from coronavirus, and social care workers who provide direct personal care.

Those aged 55 to 64, who would not usually be eligible, will be offered the vaccine from December if supplies allow.

NHS Fife chief executive Carol Potter said: ‘We accept that our planning was not sufficient, and we should have been better prepared to deal with the level of calls experienced.’

‘Frustration and anxiety’