Flu Season Begins Early in Shetland, Health Officials Urge Caution

The flu season in Shetland has commenced earlier than expected, with confirmed cases rising throughout the region. According to NHS Shetland’s director of public health, Dr. Susan Laidlaw, a small number of local laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported in November. Typically, the initial cases do not appear until December.

“This reflects the experience in the rest of the UK, where the flu season has started earlier this year,” Dr. Laidlaw stated. She emphasized that the majority of individuals exhibiting flu-like symptoms will not undergo laboratory testing. Testing generally occurs for patients with respiratory symptoms in hospitals and care homes, meaning the confirmed case numbers merely indicate a broader spread in the community.

To mitigate the flu’s spread and protect vulnerable populations from severe illness, Dr. Laidlaw urged the Shetland community to take several precautions. These include receiving the flu vaccination if they belong to a recommended group, staying home when unwell—especially with fever and respiratory symptoms—and practicing good hygiene. This encompasses regular handwashing and adhering to proper cough etiquette, such as using disposable tissues and disposing of them properly.

In an effort to ensure widespread vaccination, reminder letters, emails, and texts are being dispatched to eligible individuals who have not yet scheduled an appointment. Residents are encouraged to check their communications, including junk mail folders, for these messages. NHS Shetland has also advised that individuals assist friends or relatives who may have difficulty accessing emails or texts.

Those needing guidance on booking an appointment online can reach out to NHS Shetland for assistance. Patients registered at the Hillswick, Yell, Unst, and Whalsay health centres should have been contacted by their respective practices.

Vaccination Clinics Open Until Mid-December

For those seeking vaccinations, drop-in clinics at the Grantfield vaccination centre in Lerwick are available most days until mid-December. The clinic hours are as follows:

– Monday, December 8: 10:00 – 12:00
– Tuesday, December 9: 10:00 – 12:00
– Wednesday, December 10: 10:00 – 12:00 and 14:00 – 16:00
– Thursday, December 11: 10:00 – 12:00
– Friday, December 12: 10:00 – 12:00 and 14:30 – 16:00
– Monday, December 15: 10:00 – 12:00 and 14:00 – 16:00

Individuals with questions about the vaccination process can contact the vaccination team at 01595 743319 or via email at [email protected]. For additional information regarding flu prevention and vaccination, residents can visit the NHS Inform website.

As the flu season progresses, local health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves and their communities.