Sturgeon attacked over flu jab shortage

Nicola Sturgeon has come under fire over half a million older Scots missing out on the “enhanced” flu vaccine amid claims that the Scottish Government was late ordering supplies.

But the First Minister warned Tory leader Ruth Davidson against “scaremongering” over public health, insist- ing ministers followed official expert advice on stockpiles. Flu deaths in Scotland jumped to more than 330 last winter – up from 71 the year before.

The new flu jab is now being recommended for everyone aged over 65 in other parts of the UK, although supply does exist south of the Border. But it will only be available to over-75s in Scotland after ministers were unable to buy enough of the vaccine in time for this year’s programme.

Ms Davidson revealed she had been contacted by a 72-year-old Scot who had bought the enhanced vaccine in Boots and asked why the Scottish Government was unable to guarantee supplies.

“Following last year’s winter flu outbreak, this is an issue of enormous concern for people,” she said.