Moray MSP encourages flu jab take-up

MORAY'S MSP has urged parents to "trust the facts” and make sure their child is vaccinated for flu this winter.

Richard Lochhead said it only takes a few minutes but offers protection for around a year.

The SNP Scottish parliamentarian said: "The flu is no joke. There’s plenty of misinformation about vaccines online – but it’s important that parents in Moray trust the facts.

"Staff at NHS Grampian are doing a tremendous job with a tough time of year ahead and we should all do our bit to not add unnecessary pressure on the health service.

"If you or your children are eligible, make sure that getting the vaccination is a priority and book an appointment with your GP practice or health board as soon as possible."

The encouragement followed the launch of the Scottish Government's annual national flu vaccination programme – with a focus on people with health conditions and children aged 2-5.

Every year thousands of children are hospitalised with flu and even healthy children can become seriously ill from it. Protecting children can also stop the virus from spreading to family, friends and others.

To date more than 1.6 million doses of the nasal vaccine have been given to 2-11-year-olds as part of the Scottish childhood immunisation programme. But more parents and carers are being urged to take up the offer.

Everyone aged 65 and over, pregnant women and people at most risk of serious illness are offered the flu vaccination on the NHS.

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