NHS Forth Valley is encouraging adults aged 50 and over to book their winter vaccines to help protect themselves from COVID-19 and flu and ease pressure on the NHS this winter.

Those aged 50 to 64 can book an appointment on the NHS Inform website making it simple to arrange a time which suits them. Appointments can also be rescheduled online – with a national helpline available for those without internet access.

More than 870,000 people across Scotland have already come forward for their COVID-19 and flu vaccines, including healthcare staff, care home residents, over 65s and those at high risk. Over 1.7 million vaccines have been administered and 93.9% of people vaccinated so far received the flu and COVID-19 jabs at the same appointment.

Fiona Coan, NHS Forth Valley’s Immunisation Team Manager said: “I’d strongly encourage all adults aged 50 and over to book an appointment for their flu and COVID-19 vaccines on NHS Inform. I’d also urge anyone else who is eligible but hasn’t yet been vaccinated to book an appointment as soon as possible.

“Getting both vaccines at the same time is a safe and efficient way to deliver maximum protection over the winter months and getting vaccinated can help to ease seasonal pressures on health services. The flu virus is always changing and COVID-19 protection can fade over time, so it’s important to top up your protection by getting the vaccines when offered.”

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “Uptake continues to be encouraging showing the people of Scotland are keen to protect not just themselves, but their loved ones and the NHS. People who are vaccinated are less likely to become seriously unwell from COVID-19 or flu.

“We are working hard to ensure Scotland maintains its reputation as a leading nation for vaccine uptake – continuing the huge success of the vaccination programme since it was first rolled out in December 2020.