This year’s winter vaccine programme has started, with a clear message to all those who are being invited: ‘If you’re offered the flu vaccine, you’ve got a reason to get it.’

Flu can seriously disrupt anyone’s life but, for some people, flu hits harder. The elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk of serious flu illness, hospitalisation, and in some cases, death.

Last winter, Scotland experienced very high levels of flu, with more than 6,500 adults becoming so ill that they were admitted to hospital.

This is why the vaccination programme is focussed on protecting those who are most vulnerable to flu. Everyone who is invited for a flu vaccine needs it to protect them from potentially severe illness.

The flu virus is always changing and getting vaccinated every year is the best way to stay protected against the strains most likely to be circulating this winter.

Pregnant women are strongly recommended to take up the vaccines, which will give them and their babies the best possible protection against serious illness from the viruses.

Everyone who works in the NHS and all frontline social care workers are also eligible for the flu vaccine this winter.

The flu vaccine is also being offered to all children from 2 years old to the end of secondary school, as well as children aged 6 months to 2 years old with a condition that puts them at increased risk of flu.

Look out for your invitation or book your appointment.

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 autumn and winter.

Pregnant women should speak with their midwife, or they can book an appointment online or via the national vaccination helpline.

Frontline health and social care workers and non-frontline NHS workers may not receive an invitation and are encouraged to check local arrangements for eligible staff and book their appointment now.

Parents and carers are being asked to look out for an appointment letter by post, or a consent form in their child’s school bag, and take up the flu vaccine offer this winter.

Fiona Coan, NHS Forth Valley’s Immunisation Manager, said; “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself from flu. We strongly recommend getting vaccinated if you’re offered it this winter.

If you’re eligible, you’ll receive a letter, text or email with details of your appointment or how to book one.

Additional information

To prevent the spread of flu, we continue to recommend regular handwashing and advise people with symptoms of respiratory illness to stay and home and avoid spreading the virus to others. More information is available on NHS Inform

To find out if you’re eligible for a flu vaccine this year visit www.nhsinform.scot/flu

For more information about the child flu programme visit www.nhsinform.scot/childflu

Some people may also be eligible for other vaccines, including RSV and COVID-19 this year.

More information about the coronavirus vaccine, including who is eligible, is available on www.nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine

More information about the RSV vaccine is also available on NHS Inform RSV vaccine for adults | NHS inform| RSV vaccine during pregnancy | NHS inform