Data shows vaccine is still the best protection
New data published today by Public Health Scotland (PHS) provides clear evidence that this year’s vaccine is doing a good job of preventing severe flu.
So far this winter, children in Scotland are 78% less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu if vaccinated; with vaccinated adults in Scotland aged 65 and over 37% less likely to be hospitalised.
The new results underscore the importance of vaccination for those eligible and at highest risk of severe illness in the run up to the festive season, with new figures published today showing Scotland reaching a high level of flu activity.
There has been a further 24% increase in laboratory-confirmed cases, rising from 1875 to 2331 in the past week. Hospital admissions due to flu also increased more moderately in the last week by around 15%, rising from 860 the previous week to 986. As yet, there is little evidence of the most severe disease as measured by critical care hospital admissions.
PHS is reiterating that it is not too late to take up the offer of the flu vaccine to get protected in time for the festive season starting.
Flu can seriously disrupt anyone’s life but, for some people, flu hits harder. Those aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk of serious flu illness, hospitalisation, and in some cases, death.
This is why the flu vaccination programme is focused on protecting those who are most vulnerable to becoming seriously ill with flu.
Dr Kim Marsh, Viral Respiratory Pathogens lead at Public Health Scotland, said: “PHS’s new vaccine effectiveness results reinforce our message that the flu vaccine offers the best protection against severe disease for those who are eligible, even with the new strain now circulating widely.
"Vaccination remains the best way to help protect yourself against serious illness from flu and is also important in reducing the spread of flu in the community, helping to keep everyone from missing out on socialising with friends and family over the festive season.
“NHS Boards are working hard to deliver the winter vaccination programme and look forward to welcoming you for your appointment. Drop-in clinics are also available in most areas. For more information regarding eligibility and appointment arrangements visit nhsinform.scot/flu.”
The vaccine is being offered to all children from two years to the end of secondary school, as well as children aged six months to two years with a condition that puts them at increased risk of flu.
Pregnant women are also strongly recommended to take up the vaccine. Everyone who is eligible for this year’s vaccination will now have received their invitation by text, email or post, in a white envelope with clear NHS Scotland branding.
Pregnant women can book an appointment online or via the national vaccination helpline, with further information available from midwives. Parents and carers should have received appointment letters by post, or consent forms in their child’s school bag, and are encouraged to take up the flu vaccine offer.
Advice on how to recognise and manage flu-like symptoms is available at NHS Inform.