Swinney has flu jab and warns vaccine ‘crucial’ to protecting NHS this winter

First Minister Receives Flu Vaccine

John Swinney, the First Minister, received his flu vaccine in Edinburgh and emphasized the importance of the vaccine in protecting the NHS during the winter season.

Vaccination Details

The vaccine was administered by Tina McInnes at NHS Lothian’s centre in Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh. Eligible groups for the flu vaccine include:

Mr. Swinney qualifies for the vaccine as an unpaid carer for a family member.

Impact of Last Flu Season

During the previous flu season, around 6,500 people in Scotland needed hospital treatment, placing significant pressure on the NHS.

Current Situation and Statement

Almost one million flu vaccines have been distributed so far. Despite this, there has been a slight rise in hospital admissions due to flu cases.

“There’s 980,000 vaccines have been deployed already, and we are seeing, despite all of that, a slight increase in the level of admissions to hospital as a consequence of flu,” said Mr. Swinney.

“We need to be very attentive – that has all been monitored under the health and social care system.”

“A crucial component of this is making sure that we have adequate levels of vaccination to members of the public and our health and social care system are protected.”

Summary

The First Minister highlighted flu vaccination as an essential measure to safeguard public health and reduce NHS strain during the winter months.

Author's summary: John Swinney stressed that widespread flu vaccination remains vital to easing NHS pressure and safeguarding public health this winter.

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Grampian Online Grampian Online — 2025-11-06

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