HEALTH officials are urging eligible people across the region to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 this autumn – as vaccinations remain one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you.
Valerie White, Director of Public Health at NHS Dumfries and Galloway, explains why this is so important.
She said: “Vaccines save lives and reduce serious illness, especially for the most vulnerable in our community.
“Dumfries and Galloway has always had high uptake rates for winter vaccination programmes and this is a credit to the people in our region and something we want to see continue.
“Viruses do change so annual vaccination is vital to protect people’s health over the winter period and this reduces demand on our health and social care services over what can be our busiest times.”
Eligibility for adult flu vaccination in Scotland this winter remains identical to winter 2024/25.
Meanwhile, COVID-19 vaccinations are being offered to all adults aged 75 and above, residents of older adult care homes, and individuals aged 6 months and above who are immunosuppressed.
Full details are available on the NHS Inform website here:
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.
If you are not able to attend your appointment you can reschedule via the online portal: www.nhsinform.scot/wintervaccines) national call centre 0800 030 8013 or the local call centre on 01387 403090
Rescheduling your appointment helps us to run our vaccinations clinics as efficiently as possible to ensure as many people as possible can be protected.
Valerie White, Director of Public Health, said: “Even if you can’t attend your scheduled appointment, letting us know means someone else who needs the vaccine can take your place.
“Vaccination is not only about individual protection — it helps build stronger, healthier communities by reducing the spread of diseases like flu and COVID. Look out for your invitation or book your appointment.”