NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging those eligible for flu and Covid-19 vaccinations, who haven’t already received these, to get them now to decrease risk of serious illness over the Christmas period.
Statistics released by Public Health Scotland this week (12/12/24) showed that the circulation of Influenza A (flu) is increasing, with laboratory cases of flu nearly doubling in the last two weeks of November 2024 (227 to 417 confirmed cases). These are anticipated to continue to increase sharply over the coming weeks.
There were also over 350 flu-related emergency hospital admissions in the first week of December 2024.
Last winter, COVID-19 infections peaked in the last two weeks of the year of the year – right in the middle of the festivities that should be a happy time for loved ones to gather.
Dr Iain Kennedy, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Immunisation Coordinator said:
“No one wants to be ill over Christmas. We’re in the season of mass gatherings, cuddling the ones we love, and travelling from one home to another as we celebrate with friends and family.
“Minimise the chances of spreading winter viruses by looking after yourself and others and taking the time to go for your winter vaccinations, whether it be flu, Covid-19, or both. Increase your chance of protection and decrease chances of serious illness and hospitalisation.”
The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde winter vaccination drop-in bus has been throughout Greater Glasgow and Clyde this month and will continue next week for its last locations this year, for eligible people looking to get their vaccine before Christmas. No appointment is necessary.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde winter vaccination drop-in bus
- Monday 16th December. Morrisons, 20 Auchinlea Road, Glasgow, G34 9JJ from 9am – 4pm
- Tuesday 17th December. Forge Retail Park, 1 Biggar Street, Glasgow, G31 4BH from 9am – 4pm
- Wednesday 18th December. Tesco Shettleston, Annick Street, Shettleston, G32 7JE from 9am – 4pm
- Thursday 19th December. Chapel Street Car Park, Chapel Street, Lennoxtown, G66 7DE from 9am – 4pm
- Friday 20th December. Tesco Springburn, Cobden Road, St Rollox Business & Retail Park, G21 1AL from 9am – 4pm
