Half of those eligible have yet to receive flu vaccine

Over 49 per cent of people in Orkney eligible for the free flu vaccine have yet to take up the offer.

Health professionals are reminding people who are “at risk” that as the virus is now widely circulating they should get their annual flu vaccine as soon as possible.

People with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma, heart problems, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, lowered immunities and women who are pregnant, can be hit harder by flu and suffer more serious complications, even if they are generally fit and healthy. These groups are eligible to receive the vaccine for free at their local GP surgery.

The figures also show that 55 per cent of pregnant women are still to receive the flu vaccine.

Dr Ken Black, flu immunisation co-ordinator at NHS Orkney, said: “The flu virus circulates easier in low temperatures and as winter progresses flu viruses are continuing to spread across Scotland. It is vital that those who are eligible make an appointment to get the vaccination as soon as possible.

“It only takes a few minutes and even if you were immunised against flu last winter it is important to receive the vaccine again, as the viruses change each season.”

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