Flu Season Begins Early in Shetland as Cases Rise

The flu season has commenced earlier than usual in Shetland, with confirmed cases on the rise across the UK. According to Dr. Susan Laidlaw, director of public health at NHS Shetland, a small number of laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported in November, whereas the first cases typically emerge in 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 many individuals with flu-like symptoms do not undergo laboratory testing. “We generally only test people who have respiratory symptoms at the hospital and care homes, so the numbers of confirmed cases are only an indicator of the wider spread in the community,” she added.

Community Measures to Control Flu Spread

To mitigate the spread of flu and protect vulnerable populations from severe illness, Dr. Laidlaw urged the Shetland community to take several precautionary measures. These include receiving a flu vaccination if they belong to a recommended group, staying home if feeling unwell—particularly if experiencing fever and respiratory symptoms—and practicing good hygiene. This hygiene includes regular handwashing and following proper cough etiquette, such as using a disposable tissue to cover coughs and sneezes, disposing of it promptly, and washing hands afterward.

Additionally, individuals who are unwell with flu-like or gastrointestinal symptoms are advised against visiting hospitals and care homes.

In an effort to ensure that eligible individuals receive their vaccinations, NHS Shetland is sending out reminder letters, emails, and texts. Residents are encouraged to check for these communications, which may sometimes end up in junk mail. NHS Shetland has highlighted the importance of assisting friends or relatives who may need help accessing these messages.

Vaccination Clinics and Appointment Information

Eligible individuals will receive instructions on how to book appointments online. Those facing difficulties can contact NHS Shetland for assistance. Patients registered at health centres in Hillswick, Yell, Unst, and Whalsay should have already received contact from their respective practices.

Drop-in vaccination clinics are available at the Grantfield vaccination centre in Lerwick, operating most days until mid-December. The schedule for these clinics includes:

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

For inquiries, the vaccination team can be reached at 01595 743319 or via email at [email protected]. More information on flu and vaccination can be accessed through the NHS Inform website.

As flu cases continue to rise, community cooperation in adhering to these health guidelines is vital in managing the impact of the season.