Scotland’s doctors today (Wednesday 1 October 2008) urged patients who are eligible for the winter flu vaccination to contact their GP practice.
The vaccine programme begins in October and will continue throughout the winter months for those people most at risk from the flu bug.
Dr Andrew Buist, deputy chairman of the BMA’s Scottish GPs Committee, said: “For the more vulnerable, flu can cause serious complications and even lead to death. It is important that the flu campaign reaches as many vulnerable and ‘at-risk’ people as possible, because it is inevitable that there will be cases of flu this winter.
“The jab, however, can reduce both the likelihood of getting flu and the severity of the illness of those unfortunate enough to catch it.”
In a message to patients, Dr Buist said: “GPs are gearing for this winter’s battle against the flu bug. Across the country, surgeries are putting in place the systems needed to reach and protect as many older Scots as possible.
“Many patients will be offered the jab when they are in on routine visits, but extra clinics, call and recall systems and care home visits are also being organised along with locally led publicity campaigns.
“Flu can be very serious for older people, so take up your GP’s offer of a jab and be protected this winter.”
