Worst region for flu hospitalisations

DUMFRIES and Galloway had the highest hospital admission rate for influenza in Scotland last week. The latest data from Public Health Scotland shows that locally there were 25.4 admissions to hospital for flu per 100,000 people, whereas in NHS Borders there were 9.4 hospital admissions. However the figures also provided clear evidence that this year’s vaccine is doing a good job of preventing severe flu and officials say children are 78 per cent less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu if vaccinated; while for vaccinated adults aged 65 and over, 37 per cent are less likely to be hospitalised. 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 in Scotland 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