Flu season has hit Scotland around a month earlier than usual, and cases are rising rapidly.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging everyone eligible – especially health and social care workers – to get their winter vaccinations now to avoid being floored by symptoms or, in severe cases, hospitalised.
The flu virus changes every year, and vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and others. NHSGGC Director of Public Health, Dr Emilia Crighton, said:
“Public Health Scotland data shows cases are climbing, including here in Greater Glasgow and Clyde. We need more people to come forward for their vaccine as soon as possible, especially our staff.
“If you’ve already booked your appointment, that’s great. But if you haven’t, please make plans now.
“Free flu vaccines are available to all health and social care staff, not just those who are frontline. Thousands have already taken up the offer, but we need as many as possible to come forward before the season really takes hold. This protects you, your family, and importantly, our patients.”
There are multiple ways that staff can get the vaccine, and it doesn’t need to be through a booked appointment. NHSGGC Clinical Lead for Vaccinations Gary Cooke, explained:
“We also want staff to know that there are various options available to them if they’d like to get their vaccine.
“They can book into one of NHSGGC’s 21 community clinics online, get vaccinated in their workplace with our peer vaccinators, visit drop-in vaccination buses across the city, or visit community pharmacies.
“There is a list of around 180 pharmacies on the NHSGGC website that are offering the vaccine to eligible people. We recommend you contact them in advance to ensure they have a vaccinator ready when you pop in and remember to take your staff badge with you.
“Also, you can attend a vaccine clinic in any health board area, so if there is somewhere closer to work or home, choose there. You can see where is available by visiting NHS Inform and being signposted to an appropriate health board.”
The vaccination drive continues for all eligible members of the public. Public Health Scotland’s Viral Respiratory Pathogens Lead, Dr Kim Marsh, who visited an NHSGGC clinic this week, said:
“Flu hits harder for some. If you’re invited for a vaccine, you’ve got a reason to get it now.
“Given the early start to the season, we’re encouraging those who are eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Flu can be serious, especially for older adults, pregnant women, young children, and people with long-term health conditions. Vaccination is the simplest and most effective way to protect yourself and others.
“Most people who are eligible for this year’s vaccination are receiving their invitations by text, email or post, in a white envelope with clear NHS Scotland branding. Invitations will continue to be sent out as the programme progresses through the winter.”
To find out if you’re eligible and to book your flu vaccine visit: www.nhsinform.scot/flu
Drop-in clinics may also be available. More information on local clinics can be found on your local NHS health board website: Local health board vaccination information | NHS inform
Peer vaccinators are available for NHSGGC staff at their place of work.
Pharmacies providing the vaccines can be found in the list below:
