SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has encouraged all eligible Western Isles residents to get their winter flu and COVID boosters jags to protect themselves against serious illness this year. Eligible people include over 65s, pregnant women, individuals with certain health conditions and front-line workers.
Latest figures show that, so far this winter, nearly half of eligible adults for NHS Western Isles have received their flu and COVID-19 vaccines. People have until 31st March to receive their jags but are being encouraged to book an appointment as soon as possible.
Scotland had the highest uptake of flu vaccines amongst people over 65 in the UK last winter, with research from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) showing that 79.8% of people over 65 in Scotland received their winter flu vaccine. This was a higher percentage than in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
Following the release of this data, Allan commented:
“We know the best way to protect yourself against the flu and COVID is to get vaccinated this winter.
“The vaccines will reduce your risk of needing to go to hospital with serious illness and will help to protect those around you from catching flu and getting ill.
“It is hugely encouraging that Scotland had the highest uptake of vaccines in the UK last winter. Whilst it’s encouraging to see that nearly half of those eligible in the Western Isles have received their jag, I strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to book an appointment before the end of March.
“Winter is always a busy time for the National Health Service, so we should all do our bit to take any undue strain off the NHS this winter by getting vaccinated.
“If you have any questions or need assistance in booking your appointment, I strongly encourage you get in touch with your local GP surgery.”