Winter call for flu jabs

It creeps up on us every year but winter is coming, along with cold and flu season.

Diabetes Scotland is urging everyone with diabetes, including those who are pregnant, to get a free flu vaccination at their GP practice.

The consequences of having the flu can be serious for anyone. For people with diabetes there are additional, potentially very serious, risks. That’s why we’re stressing how important it is to get the flu vaccination now - before the start of winter.

People living with diabetes should take up the invitation to get a free flu vaccination from their GP now.

Anyone who has diabetes but hasn’t yet been invited should contact their GP surgery and find out when they are holding flu vaccination clinics. People should also be given a personal healthcare plan by their medical team for times they are feeling unwell.

Anyone who is affected by diabetes is also welcome to contact Diabetes Scotland’s confidential Helpline if they have any questions or issues they’d like to discuss. Helpline Scotland is open Monday to Friday between 9am and 7pm by telephoning 0141 212 8710 and is also available by email on helpline. scotland@diabetes.org.uk. (Calls may be recorded for quality and training. If lines in Scotland are busy you will be redirected to the Diabetes UK Helpline in London). Linda McGlynn, Patient Engagement Manager, Diabetes Scotland.