Flu vaccine
Overview
The flu vaccine is the safest and most effective way to help protect against flu.
This year flu vaccinations have been taking place differently across Scotland to reflect the needs of local communities.
It has been challenging to deliver flu vaccinations while still taking precautions against coronavirus (COVID-19) infection for patients and staff.
The need to maintain good infection prevention and control measures and proper physical distancing has been important.
Self-help guide
Who will be offered the flu vaccine
The flu vaccination programme began on 1 October 2020 and the people most at risk have been prioritised.
The current level of seasonal flu remains very low. The risks associated with flu are considerably lower than in previous years.
Coronavirus is currently a greater risk within the community.
As a result, Scottish Ministers have decided to prioritise the coronavirus vaccination programme.
No further flu vaccination appointments will be offered, unless you fall into the following categories:
- Pregnant women
- People aged 60 and over (or will be by 31 March 2021)
- People aged 6 months or over with an eligible ‘at risk’ health condition
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Household members of those shielding
- Young and unpaid carers
- Children aged 2-5 years (at 1 September 2020)
- Primary-school aged children
If you're 16 years old or over and not eligible for the free vaccination you can get the vaccine in many community pharmacies for a fee.
If you need to use public transport to get to your appointment, this counts as essential travel.
Flu symptoms
Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include symptoms such as:
- fever (temperature above 37.8°C)
- aches
- dry, chesty cough
- tiredness or exhaustion
- headache
More about the symptoms of flu or visit our the Self-help guide about Flu-like illness.