People are being urged to protect against winter viruses as the NHS begins administering flu and Covid-19 vaccines over fears of a possible “tripledemic”.
Appointments are now being offered to eligible individuals including older people, care home residents, and pregnant women.
Priority flu vaccines are also being offered to those experiencing homelessness, some asylum seekers, and young or unpaid carers in Scotland.
The rollout comes as health officials are concerned about the public’s preparedness for winter viruses, after the flu was found to have caused at least 18,000 deaths in the past two years.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu vaccine uptake decreased across all eligible groups in England last year. Vaccine uptake fell nearly 10 percent in people with clinical risk last winter, from 49.1 percent in the previous year to 41.4 percent.
Pregnant women also saw a decrease from 35 percent to 32.1 percent. The same trend held three-year-olds – seeing 44 percent uptake, down from 45.1 percent.
Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Immunisation and Vaccination at Public Health Scotland said: “Being vaccinated is the safest and most effective way for people to protect themselves against flu and COVID-19 this winter. Evidence shows that COVID-19 vaccine protection fades and the flu virus changes over time.
“These vaccines provide very good protection against hospitalisation and severe illness from both flu and COVID-19. Anyone eligible for a flu and/or COVID-19 vaccination this winter should look out for their invitation to book or attend their appointment.
“Please come forward when invited to do so as it is the best way to stay protected this winter.”
Last month, a new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was administered for the first time in the UK, with pregnant women and adults aged 75-79 given priority.
From 2022-2023, more than 1,500 infants and over 500 people aged 75 and over were hospitalised with RSV, according to Public Health Scotland.
Invitations for vaccine appointments will arrive by post in a white envelope with clear NHS Scotland branding, or by email or text, depending on communication preferences.
Pregnant women can book an appointment online or via the national vaccination helpline, with further information available from midwives. Flu and COVID-19 infection can lead to complications such as early labour, low birth weight and stillbirth.
Scotland’s Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “This year’s flu vaccine gives you the best possible protection against the flu viruses likely to be circulating this season and the COVID-19 vaccination is offered to help protect those most at risk of serious illness from the virus.
“We encourage all those eligible for either or both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines to take up their offer of an appointment when they receive it.”
Julie Yates, deputy director of immunisation programmes at the UKHSA, said: “Every year we’re seeing many of those at greater risk of getting seriously ill from winter viruses not getting their vaccines, with many thousands ending up in hospital and far too many tragically dying.
“Some of these ‘missing million’ may not realise they are more vulnerable, but if you are invited for a flu, RSV or Covid-19 jab then it is because you are at greater risk.
“Those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants and older people will be among those eligible for some or all of these life-saving vaccines.
“So if invited don’t delay, get the vaccines. And if you’re unsure if you’re eligible or have any concerns please do speak with your GP surgery or local pharmacist.”
More information on getting your winter vaccine can be found here.
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