NHS Lanarkshire: Second phase of flu vaccine programme begins this week

pPeople across Lanarkshire who are aged between 60 and 64 are being encouraged to take advantage of the second phase of the flu vaccine programme from the NHS./p pThey can now get it for free, from this week, as part of the largest-ever flu immunisation scheme in Scotland./p pWith vaccination for the first phase well under way, eligibility is being extended first to those aged 60-64 as priority is giving to those who are most at risk, especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic./p pThose entitled to the flu vaccine will receive an invitation letter by post letting them know where they can receive it and how to book an appointment./p p/ pJoanne Jenkins, associate nurse director for South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: #x201C;I#x2019;d encourage anyone invited to come forward for the flu vaccine to make sure they get the jab. It#x2019;s the best protection we have against flu, is free, safe and isn#x2019;t a live virus so it can#x2019;t give you flu./p p#x201C;Every year thousands of people in Scotland are hospitalised by flu. With Covid-19 in circulation, it is more important than ever to protect yourself and your loved ones.#xA0; Getting the flu vaccine is one of the most important reasons to leave your home and strict infection and prevention control measures are in place to ensure the utmost safety.#x201D;/p pDeputy chief medical officer Dr Nicola Steedman added: #x201C;This year more than ever it is important that those invited for vaccination take up the offer to protect themselves, their family and, where possible, the NHS. I#x2019;ve had my vaccine already, and would urge all of those who are eligible, including the new group of 60-64 year olds, to get one too./p p#x201C;We will continue to adapt our approach to any changes that occur throughout flu season, always prioritising those most at risk from flu, as well as seeking to protect the NHS.#x201D;/p pPhase one of the programme included those aged 65 or over; those over six months of age with a medical conditions which puts them in an #x2018;at risk#x2019; group (such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, heart and lung diseases or auto-immune disorders); people living in the same house as those previously shielding from Covid-19; pregnant women; primary school children; 2-5 year olds not yet in school; health and social care workers and young and unpaid carers./p