NHS Highland is reminding those who have not yet received their free winter vaccines to get vaccinated ahead of the COVID-19 winter offer coming to an end on 31 January.
An increase in the number of people experiencing coughs, colds and flu-like illnesses is recorded during the colder winter months when people stay indoors for longer, and in larger groups.
This year’s winter vaccination programme is focused on protecting those most vulnerable to flu and COVID-19. This includes older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions, such as heart or respiratory disease or a weakened immune system, as they are at greater risk of illness from flu and COVID-19. Pregnant women are also strongly recommended to take up the vaccines, to give them and their babies the best possible protections against serious illness from these viruses.
All frontline health and social care workers are eligible for the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines, while all NHS staff are eligible for the flu vaccine this winter.
Although the COVID-19 vaccine offer finishes on 31 January, the flu vaccine is available until the end of March.
Dr Tim Allison, Director of Public Health for NHS Highland, said: “Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and others and we strongly encourage everyone who is eligible in Highland and Argyll and Bute to come forward to take up the offer.
“Evidence shows that the flu virus changes over time and COVID-19 vaccine protection fades. The vaccinations offered this season can top up your protection against severe illness from flu and COVID-19.
“In NHS Highland, drop-in clinics are now available to make it as convenient as possible for people to get vaccinated. Details of these are available on the NHS Highland website or you can call our local Service Delivery Centre on 08000 320 339.”