Winter flu jab campaign launched
With the onset of winter fast approaching, the Government and the Scottish Executive have launched new campaigns to encourage those at risk to get a flu vaccination.
A new publicity campaign, using TV, radio and the press, will encourage those at risk to claim the free vaccination. Those over 65 are automatically entitled to the jab, but this year the focus will be particularly on encouraging those with chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes to come forward.
The Department of Health estimates that around 10 to 15 per cent of the population develops flu each year, with 3000-4000 deaths being attributable to flu complications. The vaccination will provide protection for 12 months and is altered each year to give protection against the latest strains of the virus.
Speaking this morning, Chief Medical Officer Sir Liam Donaldson said: “The flu is not a severe cold: it can be a serious illness, and three to four thousand deaths are linked to flu every year.
“If you suffer from a chronic illness like asthma or diabetes, or are 65 years or older, you are particularly at risk from flu. This means that if you do catch flu, it is more likely to lead on to a more serious illness. The flu jab is the most effective protection from the flu. That’s why our message for this year’s campaign is ‘If you knew about flu, you’d get the jab.'”
“If you suffer from one of these chronic conditions or you are 65 or over, you should contact your local general practitioner for this year’s free flu jab.”
A similar campaign is also being run in Scotland. Its Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Professor Peter Donnelly said: “The campaign which begins today helps to support our annual vaccination programme, supporting advice given by GP practices and NHS Boards and encouraging those eligible who may not yet have been contacted by their GP practice to speak to them about getting the jab this year.
“Traditionally the annual campaign plays an important part in increasing the numbers of people being vaccinated against flu and in recent years, in Scotland we have seen more than a 70 per cent take up in the jab for over 65s.”
In Scotland, however, there is the added complication of problems with supply of the vaccine. Professor Donnelly sought to reassure those practises affected by the short-fall, saying “contingency arrangements are in place and all those eligible who would wish to receive the vaccine will do so”.
