The Edinburgh Health & Social Care Partnership have set up drive-through and walk-in clinics for those eligible to get a free flu vaccine this season; making it even quicker, safer and easier to stay protected. And in the first three weeks since opening the clinics, over 1/3 of target drive-through vaccinations have been completed.
The new walk-in and drive-through centres across Edinburgh have been set up as an alternative to GP surgeries. To find out where you can go to receive a flu vaccine, and to book your drive-through or walk-in appointment, visit the NHS Inform website.
Those planning to attend a clinic are also advised to check the timetable on NHS Inform just before attending, as clinic opening times may be subject to change.
Staying healthy, safe and cared for this winter is more important than ever and, this year, even more people qualify for a free flu jab. As well as over 65s, pregnant people and those at risk due to existing health conditions. This year unpaid carers and those who live with people who shielded during lockdown are also urged to take up a free flu jab and protect themselves.
Edinburgh is one of the first cities to introduce this new and innovative approach, which allows as many people as possible to receive the vaccine whilst also maintaining physical distancing and hygiene standards. The flu drive-through and walk-ins also enable everyone entitled to a free flu vaccine from the same household to attend together.
Dedicated clinics have been set up for children aged 2-5 years old and health teams will continue to offer vaccinations for children at primary schools. Vaccine arrangements will also be made for people living in care homes or receiving care at home.
Adults over 65 and those with an underlying health condition who are eligible will have received a letter with details of how to make an appointment. If you have not received a letter but believe you should have, visit the NHS Inform website to get in touch.
Pregnant women, unpaid carers and household members of those shielding are also invited to visit NHS Inform for details of how to get vaccinated.
Judith Proctor, Chief Officer for the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, said:
“As part of our mission to support a caring, healthier and safer Edinburgh, we’re committed to making it even easier to get a flu vaccine this year. The flu vaccine is an important health protection measure and we want to make sure that everyone who is eligible has access to the vaccine. To keep the people of Edinburgh safe, and to respect physical distancing measures, we have confirmed a range of Edinburgh venues to offer access to the flu vaccine, including a drive through service at sites across the city. This is the first time a drive through model has been used for vaccinations in Scotland and could provide a blueprint for how to deliver vaccination programmes successfully in the future. Details of where people can go to receive a flu vaccine are available on the NHS Inform website.”
Pat Wynne, Nurse Director, Primary and Community Care at NHS Lothian added:
“This year it is more important than ever that everyone who is eligible gets their free flu vaccine as early as possible. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect you, your family and the community from contracting and spreading flu, especially if you have a health condition. Anyone who is not sure if they are eligible or how to get their vaccine should visit NHS Inform. Strict infection prevention and control measures will be in place for anyone getting a vaccine. People should attend on their own, if they do not require assistance, and wear loose sleeved clothing, underneath jackets and coats, if possible. People are also being reminded to wear a face covering and observe social distancing while travelling.