Flu jab call goes out

Jan 8 2009 by Sandra Walls, Hamilton Advertiser

IT’S not too late for people in Lanarkshire to get their flu vaccination.

That was the message from Scotland’s NHS chief medical officer Dr Harry Burns.

Dr Burns said that the number of flu cases are expected to increase this month and that the elderly and those suffering from various medical conditions should have the vaccination in order to protect themselves.

Free flu vaccinations are available to the over 65s and people under 65 in the ‘at-risk’ group. This includes people with COPD, asthma, chronic heart problems, diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease, and neurological conditions such as stroke or MS.

Those with low immunity such as patients being treated with chemotherapy or long-term steroid use. NHS healthcare staff are also eligible.