2 Million To Get Flu Jab

More than two million Scots will be offered the free flu vaccine as the national seasonal flu immunisation campaign launches.

People with underlying health conditions, pregnant women and those aged 65 and over are most at risk from flu and are being encouraged to get the vaccine, no matter how fit and healthy they feel. Children aged 2 to 11 are also being offered a nasal spray vaccine to help stop the spread of flu.

Helen Slicer, 52, from South Queensferry, who received the flu vaccine, added: 
“I have rheumatoid arthritis and I’m on immunosuppressant drugs so although I feel healthy, I know that catching flu could have a really serious impact on my health.

"I always make sure I receive the flu vaccine to stay fit and well over winter. I visit my GP as soon as possible, before the weather turns colder.

“I think it’s fantastic that my grandchild will also be protected from flu. I know that children are two to three times more likely to be ill with the virus than adults so it’s good to be assured that those I love aren’t going to get sick too."

The programme was launched by Dr Nicola Steedman, the Scottish Government’s Senior Medical Officer, at Conan Doyle Medical Centre in Edinburgh, where a grandmother was joined by her granddaughter to highlight the need for young and old to be vaccinated as soon as possible. 
Dr Steedman said:

“Flu is much worse than the common cold – it’s an illness that can cause serious health complications for those at risk. Even if you feel fit and healthy, if you have an underlying health condition, are 65 or over, or are pregnant then flu can hit you really hard.

“By taking up the free flu vaccine you can ensure you and your family are getting the 
best protection from the virus. 

“It only takes a few minutes to receive the vaccine but it will protect you for around a year. Even if you were immunised against flu last year, it’s important to receive the vaccine again as the viruses can change every year.

“It’s best to get the flu vaccine before there’s lots of viruses circulating and the vaccine takes ten to 14 days to work, so make an appointment with your GP practice as soon as possible. Don’t forget to take your child or grandchild with you if they’re not in school yet and between 2-5 years old, as they are also eligible to be vaccinated.”