Influenza Vaccination Catch-Up Sessions, 2011-12

The flu vaccination open sessions have finished, but please contact the practice as soon as possible to book an appointment at one of our "catch up" sessions if you are eligible for an influenza vaccination and wish to have this in order to be covered during the 2011/12 flu season.

If you wish to decline this offer for this year, please email the practice (email carnoustie.tayside@nhs.net), inform a staff member, or use our contact form to let us know.

Who needs the flu vaccination?

Anyone who suffers from heart or lung problems or has certain other long term medical conditions, or is 65 or over or is pregnant, should get the flu vaccine.

Conditions and diseases which can make flu much more dangerous include:

• heart disease
• chest complaints or breathing difficulties including bronchitis, emphysema or asthma
• chronic kidney failure
• cystic fibrosis
• lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment -chemotherapy or radiotherapy)
• HIV infection
• liver problems such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
• if you have had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• diabetes
• a neurological condition e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy
• a problem with, or removal of, your spleen e.g. sickle cell disease.

If you are pregnant, you are at greater risk of complications from the flu. Having the vaccine now could help you avoid catching the flu and protect your baby.

If you have children aged six months or over who suffer from any of the conditions above, they should be vaccinated too.

Anyone undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment should also get vaccinated.

You should also have the seasonal flu vaccination if you live in a residential or nursing home, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person.

Unpaid carers of any age, including young carers, are also eligible for the flu vaccine.

Further Information

• Flu (Influenza) Leaflet

Posted: 23 November 2011