NHSGGC stresses the importance of winter vaccinations
As winter approaches, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging all eligible residents to get their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations. These jabs are crucial in staying protected and reducing the risk of hospitalisation during the colder months.
Who should get vaccinated? The following groups are eligible for both the Covid-19 and flu vaccines this winter:
- Residents in care homes for older adults
- Those aged 65 and over
- Anyone at clinical risk from Covid-19 over six months old
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
Where to get vaccinated? NHSGGC has set up 20 local community clinics for eligible groups, including two new clinics at Piazza Shopping Centre, Paisley, and Braes Shopping Centre, Glasgow. Appointment times for eligible people have been sent out via mail or digitally, based on their preference. If the time doesn’t suit, this can be easily rescheduled online here.
Introducing the Winter Vaccination Drop-In Bus. To make vaccinations even more accessible, NHSGGC is launching a winter vaccination drop-in bus. This bus will visit areas with traditionally low vaccination rates, starting the week of 21st October 2024.
- 21/10/2024, Monday
- Location: Tweedie Hall, Bridge St, Linwood, Paisley
- Time: 9am-4pm
- 22/10/2024, Tuesday
- Location: Tesco, Shettleston, Annick St, Shettleston
- Time: 9am-4pm
- 23/10/2024, Wednesday
- Location: Gourock Swimming Pool, Lower Kempock Street car park
- Time: 9am-4pm
- 24/10/2024, Thursday
- Location: Auchanairn Community Centre, Beech Road, Auchinairn
- Time: 9am-4pm
- 25/10/2024, Friday
- Location: The Salvation Army, 44 Golspie Street, Glasgow
- Time: 9am-4pm
Director of Public Health for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Dr Emilia Crighton explained the importance of the winter vaccination programme.
“While it may only be the start of the colder days, winter will quickly be upon us and we are likely to see the seasonal viruses, that can be serious for our vulnerable groups, begin to climb. Every year, we see people visit our hospitals who are incredibly unwell due to either Covid-19 or flu. Taking the vaccine significantly reduces the chances of that happening,” she said.
Five actions to take this winter:
- Understand the serious impact. Covid-19 and flu are serious viruses that lead to significant hospitalisations every year.
- Annual vaccinations. Even if you’ve had these vaccines in the past 12 months, you need to get them again to stay protected.
- Reduce your risk. The Covid-19 vaccine can reduce your chances of hospitalisation by around 50%, while the flu vaccine helps prevent serious illness and transmission.
- Check on loved ones. Ensure your friends and family haven’t missed their appointment letters and offer support if needed.
- Know your options. Any questions that you have in relation to either the Covid-19 or flu vaccination can be asked to our expert vaccinators on the day of your appointment or at a drop-in clinic.
