NHS Western Isles says flu vaccination is even more important this year

NHS Western Isles is strongly urging everyone eligible to protect themselves, others and the NHS by getting their vaccination.

Dr Maggie Watts, NHS Western Isles’ Director of Public Health, said: “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.

“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.”

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 now eligible.

They join those aged 65 and over, those with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, children aged between two and five years, primary school children and health care workers who are already eligible.

The vaccination programme has already started for health and social care workers in the Western Isles.

From this month, vaccination appointments will be offered to most other eligible groups. People aged 55-64 years will be invited for their free flu vaccine in December.

Primary school pupils throughout the islands will be offered the flu vaccination administered by the local school nursing team, during October and November. Most of these school children will receive the vaccine in the form of a nasal spray, avoiding the need for an injection.

Consent forms have been sent home in school bags for all primary pupils.

Pre-school children who are aged two and above (as at September 1) are also offered a free flu immunisation – again taken as a pain-free nasal spray – and will be invited by NHS Western Isles to make an appointment for a vaccination.

Women who are pregnant will be offered the flu vaccination by their midwife.

Visit NHS Inform: Flu or call 0800 22 44 88 to find out about getting the flu vaccine.