Influenza Vaccination: have you booked yours?

With COVID-19 circulating across the country including the Western Isles, islanders are being reminded that the free Influenza vaccination is being offered to more people than ever in Scotland this year and encouraged to take advantage as soon as possible. 

The Influenza vaccination is being offered to those aged 65 and over, those with underlying health conditions (e.g. asthma, stroke, diabetes), pregnant women, children aged between 2-5 years, primary school children and health care workers who are already eligible. 

This year, for the first time, social care workers, those living in the same house as people who have been shielding from COVID-19, and 55-64 year olds are also now eligible to receive the Influenza vaccination.

From the beginning of October, vaccination appointments will be offered to most of the eligible groups. Those aged 55-64 years will be invited for their free Influenza vaccine in December. 

Dr Maggie Watts, NHS Western Isles' Director of Public Health, said: “Getting your flu vaccination is one of the most important reasons for leaving your home.

“Influenza is a very infectious disease which can have serious consequences and can be fatal. Those who have chronic conditions should ensure therefore that they are immunised again with this year’s vaccine. The influenza vaccination remains the best defence against the virus.

“We want everyone in the Western Isles who is at greater risk from the dangers of flu to be protected. The immunisation is safe, and provides protection for up to a year. It only takes a few minutes and even if you were immunised against flu last winter, it is important to receive the vaccine again this year, as the viruses change each season. The vaccine is safe, effective and significantly reduces the chance of influenza illness. During the COVID-19 pandemic period, it is more important than ever that you do what you can to protect yourself and your family from flu.”

Visit www.nhsinform.scot/flu or call 0800 22 44 88 to find out about getting the flu vaccine in your area.

How do I make an appointment?
If you are eligible for the Influenza vaccination, you will receive a letter inviting you to make an appointment. Contact details to make your appointment will be included in your letter.

Vaccinations will be carried out by community nurses rather than by practice nurses and we will be offering appointments at a range of community locations near to your own home, as well as in local GP surgeries, to make things easier and more convenient for you. 

Please note that phone lines may be busy, but we would urge those eligible for their local vaccination to keep telephoning the number provided on their letter.  Alternatively, those eligible can also email Flu.vax@nhs.net to enquire about making their Influenza vaccination booking, ensuring they include their name, address and importantly a contact telephone number.​  They will then be contacted at the earliest opportunity to arrange their Influenza vaccination appointment.

For further information about the Influenza vaccination, visit www.nhsinform.scot/flu or call 0800 22 44 88.