THOUSANDS of people across Dumfries and Galloway are being urged to roll up their sleeves as the winter vaccination campaign kicks off – offering flu and COVID-19 jags to protect the most vulnerable.
Health officials are reminding residents that, in line with national guidance, COVID-19 vaccination this year is focused on adults aged 75 and over, care home residents, and anyone aged six months or older who have a weakened immune system. Meanwhile, the eligibility for flu jags remains the same as last year.
Director of Public Health Valerie White said: “Vaccination is one of the most effective ways we can protect our population, particularly those most at risk from respiratory illness. We have put in place a wide range of venues, appointment systems and communications to make access as straightforward and fair as possible.”
A report to NHS Board on Monday noted that to support equity of access residents will be able to attend adult mass vaccination clinics at locations across the region:
Annan Vaccination Centre
Sanquhar Community Centre
Canonbie Public Hall
Thornhill Health and Social Care Hub
Castle Douglas Vaccination Centre
Waverley Medical Centre
Kirkcudbright Health and Social Care Hub
Lockerbie Medical Practice
Moffat Health and Social Care Hub
Mountain Hall Treatment Centre, Dumfries
Newton Stewart Health and Social Care Hub
School and pre-school children will be vaccinated in dedicated sessions, while care home residents receive visits from vaccination teams – with eligible staff able to get their jags at the same time.
Frontline health and social care workers began receiving flu vaccinations in mid-September, with a combination of booked and drop-in clinics.
Health officials say appointment contact will be as per individual’s previously stated preference which could be via a text, email or letter with an appointment or a prompt to book. Appointment letters will arrive with clear NHS Scotland branding. To promote access, mobile vaccination units will help reach some communities.
The campaign runs into December. People who believe they are eligible and have not been contacted by the beginning of November, are advised to phone our local immunisation call centre on 01387 403090.
Ms White highlighted the importance of widespread coverage and said: “By ensuring good uptake across our communities, we can reduce the risk of serious illness, help protect health services, and safeguard lives through the winter months.”
For more information it’s important to visit trusted sites such as NHS Inform at https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/winter-vaccines/
