Action on flu is crucial

Flu – real flu rather than the “man” strain – can be absolutely devastating, particularly to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with underlying health conditions,

Should anyone doubt the impact of flu, they need only look at the Scottish NHS, with hospitals currently under intense pressure because of the number of people afflicted by it this winter.

Accident and Emergency units have struggled to cope and a number of operations, scheduled to take place have been postponed.

There is no doubt that more could be done to ensure greater uptake of the flu vaccine.

The Scottish Conservatives have called on Health Secretary Shona Robison to take action to increase the number of vaccines administered to vulnerable groups. It’s also crucial the jab is effective.

The vaccine currently being offered simply doesn’t protect against one of the most common strains of flu and that, surely, is unacceptable.

Scotland has the highest rate of flu-related deaths in the UK. If that is to change, Shona Robison must show real leadership.