The flu season is already underway in Scotland with cases continuing to increase over the last couple of weeks. Every vaccination helps reduce the risk of flu spreading in homes and care settings, keeping vulnerable individuals safe and services running smoothly.

Elizabeth Robertson is a home carer employed by South Lanarkshire Council and has been caring for vulnerable people for 28 years, including 14 years in the Clydesdale area.  Elizabeth explained why getting vaccinated matters to her. She said: “I’ve had my flu vaccine because it’s important to protect the service users I visit every day.

“Many of them have weakened immune systems, so this is my way of keeping them safe and reducing the risk of passing on the virus. It also protects me from catching flu at any point throughout the winter.”

Samantha Roden, a Social Care Assistant at McKillop Gardens Care Home in East Kilbride, knows how vital flu protection is. Samantha said: “I live in East Kilbride with my parents and I’m getting my flu jag today to protect them as well as myself.

“Recently, they’ve both been unwell – my dad has asbestos-related health issues and my mum has lung conditions. Getting vaccinated is a simple way to help keep them safe and reduce the risk of flu this winter.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Keeping our services running and ensuring the safety of the most vulnerable members of our community is critical, especially during winter. That depends on the health and wellbeing of our dedicated health and social care staff.

“For health and social care staff, vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect themselves, their colleagues and the people who rely on them – particularly given that an especially virulent strain of flu is circulating this year.

“Thank you to Elizabeth, Samantha and all the social care workers who have already had their flu vaccine for leading by example and helping to protect the people they care for, their colleagues and their communities.”

NHS clinics are open and are offering drop-in clinics every weekday (Monday to Friday). You can find out more by visiting their website.