With nearly 5,000 adults hospitalised due to flu last winter, NHS Forth Valley is urging all eligible individuals to receive their vaccination to minimise the risk of severe illness. Flu can pose a significant threat, especially to older adults, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions, who are at higher risk of serious complications, hospitalisation, and even death.
Dr Calum Robertson, Immunisation Coordinator for NHS Forth Valley, stated, “Flu is often dismissed as just a bad cold, but for many people it can lead to serious illness and hospitalisation. Every year, we see the impact flu can have on people across Forth Valley, particularly older adults, pregnant women and those living with underlying health conditions. That’s why I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a flu vaccine this year. It is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and help protect those who are most vulnerable in our communities. If you receive an invitation, please don’t delay. Getting vaccinated now will help give you the best possible protection throughout the winter months.”
Most eligible individuals are receiving invitations via text, email, or post. To determine eligibility, people can visit the NHS inform flu webpage at www.nhsinform.scot/flu. Pregnant women are strongly advised to get vaccinated for their own protection and that of their baby. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 0800 030 8013, with midwives also available for further information.
Community pharmacies across Forth Valley are also offering flu vaccinations. A list of participating pharmacies is available on the NHS Forth Valley Seasonal Vaccination webpage. Eligible individuals are advised to contact their local pharmacy directly to arrange an appointment.
Health and social care workers are encouraged to get vaccinated promptly through convenient drop-in clinics available across Forth Valley. Further details on clinic dates, times, and locations can be found on the NHS Forth Valley Staff Vaccination webpage.
The flu vaccine is also offered to children aged 2 up to the end of secondary school, and younger children (6 months to 2 years) with underlying health conditions. Children aged 2 to 5 years not yet at school who missed their appointment can attend drop-in clinics. Information on these clinics is on the NHS Forth Valley Childhood Vaccination webpage. Parents and carers of school-aged children should return consent forms promptly. Home-educated children and those not in mainstream education are also eligible and can arrange vaccination by contacting 0800 130 3120 or fv.vaccinationenquiries@nhs.scot. More information on the childhood flu programme is at www.nhsinform.scot/childflu.
