Scotland is facing a significant rise in flu cases, prompting Health Secretary Neil Gray to encourage eligible individuals to get vaccinated. Recent data from Public Health Scotland indicates a troubling increase, with confirmed flu cases more than doubling to 1,759 during the week of November 24 to 30. Hospital admissions surged by 70 percent, reaching 724 in the same period.
Increasing Cases Prompt Vaccination Calls
The areas most affected include Grampian, Glasgow, and parts of the south-west, with Gray warning that the outbreak is likely to spread throughout Scotland in the coming weeks. He described the situation as “a worry,” noting that it parallels last year’s flu season, which was particularly challenging.
Gray stated, “We’re seeing that steep rise in both hospitalisations and of people contracting flu,” underscoring the importance of the vaccination program that began in September. To date, over 1.5 million people have been vaccinated across Scotland.
In terms of vaccine uptake, Gray assured that this year has seen an increase in the number of adults vaccinated compared to previous years. He confirmed that the current eligibility criteria favor those aged over 65, although individuals with specific medical conditions may qualify for the vaccine at a younger age.
Private Vaccination Considered for Some
When asked whether individuals over 50 should have been included in the NHS vaccine rollout, Gray referenced the decisions made based on the expert advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). He emphasized that while the government sets eligibility based on this expert guidance, individuals can still seek vaccination through private means if they choose.
Gray encouraged everyone eligible to receive the vaccine, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing the risk of serious illness and hospitalisation. This proactive approach comes as the Scottish Government monitors the evolving situation.
The Health Secretary also noted a varied geographic spread of the virus, particularly affecting regions such as Greater Glasgow and Clyde, North Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran, Dumfries and Galloway, and Grampian. He anticipates that the impact will extend beyond these areas as cases continue to rise.
With the flu outbreak escalating, Gray was questioned about the possibility of reintroducing public health measures, such as mask-wearing, should the situation worsen. He responded that any such decisions would rely on public health advice and the overall spread of the virus. “I also don’t want to be too alarmist,” Gray added, emphasizing the need to protect health services while ensuring public access.
As Scotland grapples with the increase in flu cases, the government continues to advocate for vaccination as a vital tool in managing public health and mitigating the impact of the outbreak.
