The flu vaccine is the best available protection against the flu virus. It’s very safe, takes only a few minutes and will last around a year. The vaccine is offered each winter flu season, which lasts from September to March.
The following information advises on how the flu vaccine will be delivered across Ayrshire and Arran during winter 2023/24.
Who is eligible for the vaccine?
Those eligible for the flu vaccine this year can be found here: https://publichealthscotland.scot/our-areas-of-work/immunisations/seasonal-immunisations/winter-vaccinations/eligible-groups/
Where can I get a flu vaccine?
In Ayrshire this autumn and winter there are the following routes for seasonal flu vaccination:
- At a Mass Vaccination Centre. This can be alongside your COVID-19 booster (if you are eligible) or as a seasonal flu vaccine only. If you are eligible for both winter vaccines please look out for your white envelope appointment letter with details of your slot, or make your own appointment via the national booking portal here: https://www.nhsinform.scot/winter-vaccines. Alternatively you can call the national vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013.
- At a participating Community Pharmacy. Please click here to view a list of Ayrshire pharmacies where this is available.
- In schools and nurseries for children age 2-5 and school age children (primary and secondary).
- In your home if you are housebound. NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Mass Vaccination Service will begin delivering winter vaccinations (COVID-19 booster and seasonal flu) to those who are housebound from Monday 16 October 2023. For those eligible citizens who are housebound, the service will contact you to arrange a home visit. This winter, we aim to complete all housebound vaccinations by the middle of December 2023. If you are housebound and have not been contacted by the beginning of December, please call the national helpline 0800 030 8013.
More info on flu vaccinations
For further information on flu and the vaccine, you can visit NHS Inform
COVID-19 boosters
This year we are running two important vaccination programmes at the same time and you may also be eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccination. Click here to find out more.