News / Flu jab clinics
People in Shetland aged 65 and over, along with pregnant women and other younger people considered to be at high risk if they catch flu, are being urged to take up the offer of a free seasonal flu jab.
Each of the GP practices in Shetland will contact their patients to offer the vaccination. As in previous years, patients aged 65 and over will also receive a standard letter sent on behalf of the Scottish Government.
Dr Susan Laidlaw of NHS Shetland said: “Each year there are slightly different strains of seasonal (winter) flu circulating in the community, this is why a new vaccine has to be given each year.
“The vaccine helps to protect people who are more vulnerable to flu and the complications of flu, including people over 65 and those with certain medical conditions.
“Pregnant women are also more at risk of the complications of flu and they are now routinely being advised to have the flu vaccine. I would encourage all pregnant women to speak with their midwife or GP about having the flu jab.”
Details of flu vaccination clinics:
Lerwick Health Centre patients (held at Clickimin):
- Tuesday 30 October
- Tuesday 6 November
(Pregnant women and children under 12 cannot be vaccinated at the flu fair and must make an appointment to attend the health centre)
Brae Health Centre patients:
- Tuesday 30 October 2-4pm
- Thursday 1November 2-4pm
- Tuesday 6 November 2-4pm
- Thursday 8 November 2-4pm
Scalloway Health Centre patients:
- Tuesday 9 October 6-7.30pm
- Friday 12 October 2-4.30pm
- Friday 19 October 2-4.30pm
Unst Health Centre Patients (Baltasound Hall):
- Thursday 11 October 6-8pm
- Friday 12 October 9-11am
Yell Health Centre patients:
- Burravoe Hall – Tuesday 23 October 10am-12noon
- Mid Yell Hall– Wednesday 24 October 2-4pm
- Mid Yell Hall – Wednesday 31 October 2-4pm
- Cullivoe Hall– Thursday 1 November 2-4pm
Patients registered with the GP practices in Bixter, Hillswick, Levenwick, Walls and Whalsay should contact their own practice, or look out for local publicity, to find out how to get their flu jab.
Further information on the national flu vaccination campaign is available from the Immunisation Scotland website.
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