Swinney Receives Flu Vaccine and Highlights Its Importance for NHS Protection
The First Minister, John Swinney, emphasized the vital role of flu vaccinations in safeguarding the NHS during winter as he received his own shot in Edinburgh.
He was administered the flu vaccine by Tina McInnes at NHS Lothian’s centre in Ocean Terminal on Thursday. Swinney qualifies for the vaccine as an unpaid carer for a family member.
Who Is Eligible for the Vaccine
- People aged 65 and above
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with underlying health conditions
- Unpaid carers
- Health and social care staff
Flu’s Impact and Vaccination Progress
Last winter, around 6,500 people in Scotland required hospital care due to flu, adding pressure to the NHS. Nearly one million vaccinations have already been given this year, yet hospital admissions linked to flu have seen a small rise.
“There’s 980,000 vaccines have been deployed already, and we are seeing, despite all of that, a slight increase in the level of admissions to hospital as a consequence of flu,” said Mr Swinney.
“We need to be very attentive – that has all been monitored under the health and social care system. A crucial component of this is making sure that we have adequate levels of vaccination so that the public and the health and social care system are protected.”
Author’s Summary
John Swinney urged widespread flu vaccination, stressing it is essential to support the NHS and reduce winter hospital burdens across Scotland.