Get protected against flu

Dec 31 2010 Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTHSHIRE residents are being urged to take up a free vaccine to see off the seasonal flu virus.

Less than half of those under 65 and eligible to receive the vaccine have done so in Scotland since October, although the take-up rate is better for older groups.

But barely a fifth of pregnant women have received the potentially lifesaving jab.

The groups who are entitled to free seasonal flu vaccinations are:

Those aged 65 and over; anyone under the age of 65 with a medical condition that puts them in an “at risk” group; pregnant women; NHS healthcare staff; and unpaid carers.

Since the start of the flu ‘season’ there have been a total of 11 people with laboratory confirmed influenza who have required management in intensive care as a result of severe infection – two have died.

Scottish health secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “I would encourage everyone who is eligible to get themselves vaccinated.

“Flu vaccine will still be available into the new year and it is never too late to make sure you are protected.”