Following a further meeting on NHS winter pressures chaired by
First Minister last night, Health Secretary
has commented on the publication
of flu statistics by Public Health Scotland.
Mr Gray said:
“The Scottish Government remains in contact with key partners in
the NHS and social care, including through regular meetings being
chaired by the First Minister.
“Although the latest statistics show hospitalisations because of
flu have decreased, it is clear that the health and social care
system continues to face significant winter pressures,
including cases of Influenza A, which remain high.
“Everyone can reduce the chance of catching flu or spreading it
to others with good hand hygiene and other precautions, staying
home if you have respiratory symptoms and most crucially, getting
the vaccination if eligible.
“The groups eligible for the flu vaccine this winter are more
likely to experience serious illness or complications from flu
due to older age or underlying health conditions. I therefore
urge all those who are eligible for vaccinations this winter
to come forward as soon as possible to protect themselves.”
Background
Viral respiratory diseases
(including influenza and COVID-19) in Scotland surveillance
report 9 January 2025 - Viral respiratory diseases (including
influenza and COVID-19) in Scotland surveillance report -
Publications - Public Health Scotland
More than 1.2 million adult and 523,000 child flu vaccinations
have been administered, as of 5 January. Those eligible to be
vaccinated have until March to do so, with many health boards
offering drop-in clinics.
