Flu jab take up is ‘vital’

Beat winter virus

People in Forth Valley at risk of developing complications from flu are being advised there is still time to get the flu vaccine before the virus hits.

Reported cases more than doubled last winter, with flulike illness at the highest rate for seven years.

NHS FV consultant in public health medicine Dr Henry Prempeh said: “Flu isn’t circulating widely in Scotland yet so there’s still time to get the vaccine and ensure you’re protected ahead of winter. It provides the best defence against flu and getting it early is vital.

“Last winter was a particularly bad year for flu and we cannot predict how severe this flu season will be, which is why it is so important for those who are at risk to get vaccinated, even if they feel fit and healthy, It only takes a few minutes and will protect you for around a year.”

This year’s flu vaccination programme is already underway. This winter, the Scottish Government has bought more vaccine than last year in response to higher demand.

Those eligible for the free flu vaccine include: aged 65 years of age and over; over six months old with a medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, heart and lung diseases, or autoimmune disorders; NHS workers; unpaid carers; pregnant women; children aged 2-11-years-old. Age 2-5 year olds and not yet in school will be vaccinated at their GP practice; 5-11-yearolds will be vaccinated at school during the autumn term. More at readyforflu. scot or phone NHS Inform on 0800 22 44 88.