NHS Lanarkshire appeals for calm over flu jabs

In response to the heightened enquiries a note of ‘strong reassurance’ has been issued, as the health board asks for public support and patience as the programme gets underway.

Dr Mark Russell, associate medical director for Health and Social Care in North Lanarkshire, said: “We understand that people are anxious and want to know when they will receive their flu vaccination.

“We would like to reassure the public that everyone who is eligible, will receive an appointment for their vaccination.

“We use the details from GP practice lists to identify who is eligible. If you have previously received the vaccine from your GP, then you will be on the list to receive it this year.

“If you are not sure if you are eligible, visit www.nhsinform.scot/flu and use the ‘How to get the flu vaccine in your area’ guide.”

More than 300,000 people across Lanarkshire are eligible for the flu vaccine, and appointments will be issued in the next eight weeks for priority patients.

Priority patients include: children aged 2-5 years (not yet in school), everyone aged under 65 at risk, everyone aged 65 and over, and people who have been shielding and members of their households.

Those aged 55-64 years who are not otherwise eligible could receive the vaccine later in the programme if supplies allow.

Dr Russell added: “We are appealing for your patience and understanding as we are vaccinating more people than usual, in a relatively short period of time.

“The programme will take longer than other years to deliver and we would like to reassure you that staff are working hard to make sure everyone gets their vaccination as soon as possible.”

Visit www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/flu for regular updates.