Winter vaccination programmes launch in Scotland and Ireland

Winter vaccination programmes for flu and COVID-19 are currently underway in parts of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

In Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service is supporting community drop-in clinics for eligible groups, including cattle and swine workers, healthcare workers, the homeless, and unpaid carers. Specific sessions are scheduled across various locations such as Deerness, St Margaret’s Hope, Burray, Birsay, and Dounby. Patients on the mainland and non-ferry linked isles will receive appointment details via post, text, or email.

In Ireland, the HSE West and North West is rolling out flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Recommendations include vaccinations for individuals aged 60 and older, those with underlying medical conditions, healthcare workers, and pregnant women. Children aged 2 to 17 are also advised to receive the flu vaccine, which is available as a needle-free nasal spray. Both vaccines can be administered during the same appointment at participating GPs and pharmacies at no cost to eligible individuals.