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Health Secretary Neil Gray has reassured the public that Scotland has sufficient supplies of the flu vaccine despite contending with a particularly demanding flu strain this season. Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland Breakfast, Gray emphasized the seriousness of the current flu variant and encouraged those eligible to receive their vaccinations promptly. Data indicates that between September and November, over one million adults and 400,000 children were vaccinated, reflecting ongoing efforts to contain the virus.
Recent official statistics reveal a significant 45% rise in confirmed flu cases across Scotland within one week, jumping from 555 to 805. Gray highlighted the swift increase as a key challenge this year but expressed confidence in the vaccine’s ability to reduce hospital admissions and limit both the severity and spread of the illness. “We have no concern on vaccination supplies across Scotland,” he stated, affirming that ample stocks are available statewide.
Vaccination coverage varies among different groups, with an overall adult uptake rate reaching 42.9% as of late November. However, uptake remains low for some vulnerable populations; individuals aged 18 to 64 who are at risk of severe flu complications have a vaccination rate of only 26.9%, whereas care home residents aged over 65 show a higher uptake of 79%. In the week ending 23 November, infection rates increased from 10 to 14.5 cases per 100,000 people, with hospital admissions also rising from 279 to 391. Public Health Scotland consultant Dr. Claire Cameron confirmed the vaccination program was well-stocked and continues without interruption, noting, “We know that in the national programme there is sufficient stock… we very much encourage you to come forward.”
Concerns about vaccine effectiveness have been raised amid reports questioning its impact on the current flu strain. Dr. Cameron maintained that the vaccine is performing well in preventing severe illness. Conversely, Scottish Labour’s deputy leader Jackie Baillie warned that the NHS is facing ongoing crises heading into a difficult winter and asserted that flu vaccination rates are lower than last year’s. She urged for a coherent strategy to protect public health and reduce pressure on emergency services. Scottish Conservative health spokesperson Dr. Sandesh Gulhane also called for urgent action, warning that the health service could struggle as the flu season worsens and advocating for a reduction in bureaucracy to bolster frontline resources.
Eligibility for a free flu vaccine in Scotland includes all individuals aged over 65 and those between 18 and 65 identified as being at risk due to health conditions. Children from ages two to five, as well as school-aged children, are offered immunization through a nasal spray. Notably, the previous extension of free vaccinations to people aged 50 to 64, along with teachers and prison officers during the pandemic, has now been rescinded. Those eligible should have received invitations to book their vaccination appointments; otherwise, appointments can be scheduled through NHS Inform. For individuals outside the eligible groups, vaccines remain available privately at pharmacies, typically costing between £18 and £20. Last year, Scotland administered over 2.1 million flu vaccines, achieving an approximate uptake rate of 53%
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