Flu & Pneumococcal Immunisation

 

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The way you will get your flu vaccine this year has changed.

People aged 70 or over will now be sent a letter by the national booking system with details of an appointment at a vaccination centre.

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Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer recommends you have the free flu vaccine this year if you:

Getting the vaccine is the safest and most effective way to help protect yourself against flu and it's also one of the most important reasons for leaving your home.

If you are aged 65 or over, or have an eligible health condition, the risk of getting seriously ill with the flu virus is greater than the risk of going to get your vaccine.

During vaccination, strict infection prevention and control measures will be in place.

image representing flu vaccination

 

Do I Need To Be Protected Against Pneumococcal Infection?

Everybody aged 65 and over should also be immunised to help protect them against pneumococcal infection which can cause diseases such as pneumonia, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis. You should also be immunised if you are under 65 with the following serious medical conditions:

  • Problems with the spleen, either because the spleen has been removed or doesn’t work properly - for example sickle cell disorder and coeliac disease
  • Chronic lung disease, including chronic bronchitis or emphysema
  • Serious heart conditions
  • Severe kidney disease
  • Long-term liver disease
  • Diabetes requiring medication
  • Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment - for example HIV, chemotherapy for cancer or long-term oral steroids for conditions such as asthma
  • Cochlear implants
  • Individuals with cerebrospinal fluid leaks
  • Children under 5 years of age who have previously had invasive pneumococcal disease, such as meningitis or bacteraemia.