Don’t go without the flu jab

Buddies eligible for the flu vaccine are urged to get in there early and banish the winter bugs.

Health bosses are saying the vaccine remains the best defence against flu, and will be offered to around 2.5 million people this year, including those with health conditions, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and children aged two to 11.

Hospital workers and carers are also offered the jab to help stop the spread of the virus to the vulnerable.

And with the flu vaccine available at GP practices from this week, the advice is to make it a priority to get protected ahead of winter.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “This year we want to ensure as many people as possible are protected from flu ahead of winter hitting.

“The vaccine is safe, effective, and remains the best protection against the flu virus.

“It is important to stress that the flu vaccine offered to those ages 65 to 74 this winter still provides protection.

“Last winter was a particularly bad year for flu, with a rise in the number of cases and hospitalisations.

“Flu can be extremely serious for those who are vulnerable and is very infectious.”

Figures show almost 2,000 people have been hospitalised for flu or its complications each year.

For more information call phone NHS Inform on 0800 22 44 88 or visit readyforflu. scot