Flu Vaccine proven to reduce risk of serious illness

NHS Western Isles is promoting recent findings from Public Health Scotland (PHS) which provides clear evidence that this year’s vaccine is working well in preventing severe flu.

Within their findings, PHS states that so far this winter, children in Scotland are 78% less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu if vaccinated; with vaccinated adults in Scotland aged 65 and over 37% less likely to be hospitalised.

These findings confirm the importance of vaccination for those eligible and at highest risk of severe illness in the run up to the festive season, with new figures published today showing Scotland reaching a high level of flu activity.

NHS Western Isles would like to remind local eligible residents that it’s not too late to take up the offer of the flu vaccine to get the best protection in time for Christmas. If you are eligible and have not yet received an appointment, please contact the Western Isles Vaccination helpline on 01851 448 567 (phoneline open Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm) or attend one of our drop-in clinics: www.wihb.scot.nhs.uk/vaccination-clinics/. 

To prevent the spread of flu, we continue to recommend regular handwashing and advise people with symptoms of respiratory illness to stay off work or school and away from hospitals until you’re feeling better. If you have flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, cough or feeling tired and achy – try to limit contact with others, especially those at higher risk. If you do need to go out when unwell, please consider wearing a face mask.