Scotland’s flu vaccine programme protects those most at risk from severe illness

This year’s winter vaccine programme has started, with a clear message to all those who are being invited: ‘If you’re offered the flu vaccine, you’ve got a reason to get it.’

Flu can seriously disrupt anyone’s life but, for some people, flu hits harder. The elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk of serious flu illness, hospitalisation, and in some cases, death.

Last winter, Scotland experienced very high levels of flu, with more than 6,500 adults becoming so ill that they were admitted to hospital.

This is why the vaccination programme is focussed on protecting those who are most vulnerable to flu. Everyone who is invited for a flu vaccine needs it to protect them from potentially severe illness.

The flu virus is always changing and getting vaccinated every year is the best way to stay protected against the strains most likely to be circulating this winter. 

Dr Claire Cameron, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health Scotland, said:

“The flu virus is always changing, and vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and others.

“If you’re offered the flu vaccine, it’s for a reason – either because you’re particularly vulnerable to becoming seriously ill with flu, or to protect those around you. Even if you feel fit and healthy, and any underlying health conditions are well-managed, flu can have devasting consequences.

“By getting vaccinated, you’ll reduce your risk of needing to go to hospital with serious flu illness this winter.”

Pregnant women are strongly recommended to take up the vaccines, which will give them and their babies the best possible protection against serious illness from the viruses.

Everyone who works in the NHS and all frontline social care workers are also eligible for the flu vaccine this winter.

The flu vaccine is also being offered to all children from 2 years old to the end of secondary school, as well as children aged 6 months to 2 years old with a condition that puts them at increased risk of flu. 

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nicola Steedman, said:

“Flu is not to be taken lightly. It can mean time off work, can be passed on to family, friends or colleagues who may be vulnerable, and can make some people seriously unwell.

"We saw very high levels of the flu virus last year across Scotland, which also contributed to real pressure on the NHS.

“So it’s vital that all those who are eligible come forward in winter 2025 to receive their flu vaccine and help to protect themselves and their loved ones.” 

Look out for your invitation or book your appointment

Most people who are eligible for this year’s vaccination are receiving their invitations by text, email or post, in a white envelope with clear NHS Scotland branding. Invitations will continue to be sent out as the programme progresses through the autumn and winter.

Pregnant women can book an appointment online or via the national vaccination helpline, with further information available from midwives.

Frontline health and social care workers and non-frontline NHS workers may not receive an invitation and are encouraged to check local arrangements for eligible staff and book their appointment now.

Parents and carers are being asked to look out for an appointment letter by post, or a consent form in their child’s school bag, and take up the flu vaccine offer this winter. 

Additional information

To prevent the spread of flu, we continue to recommend regular handwashing and advise people with symptoms of respiratory illness to stay and home and avoid spreading the virus to others. More information is available on NHS Inform

To find out if you’re eligible for a flu vaccine this year visit www.nhsinform.scot/flu

For more information about the child flu programme visit www.nhsinform.scot/childflu

Some people may also be eligible for other vaccines, including RSV and COVID-19 this year. More information about the coronavirus vaccine, including who is eligible, is available on www.nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine

More information about the RSV vaccine is also available on NHS Inform RSV vaccine for adults | NHS inform and RSV vaccine during pregnancy | NHS inform