Let’s get vaccinated

Shingles Vaccination programme

What’s shingles?
Shingles is caused by a virus called varicella zoster, the same virus that causes chickenpox. When you recover from chickenpox most of this virus is destroyed, but some survives and lies inactive in your body’s nervous system. The virus can then become active again later in life, when your immune system has been weakened by age, stress, illness or certain treatments that can reduce your immunity. The shingles vaccine helps to protect you by boosting your immunity.

The Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine helps reduce your risk of developing shingles. If you do get shingles, it can reduce how serious the symptoms will be. On 1st September 2023, eligibility for the shingles vaccine in Scotland is changing. You can check your eligibility here using the calculator. Shingles vaccine eligibility by age calculator 2023/24 (scot.nhs.uk) We will begin to invite all those eligible from January 2024 on a phased approach by priority.

Pneumococcal Vaccination Programme

What are pneumococcal bacteria?
Pneumococcal bacteria cause pneumococcal infection. They can cause serious illnesses like pneumonia and bacterial meningitis. They can also
cause other conditions like severe ear infections. Some adults carry pneumococcal bacteria in the back of their nose and throat. They can pass bacteria on by coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Exposure to pneumococcal bacteria doesn’t normally result in serious illness. But, sometimes it leads to pneumococcal infections. You have a higher chance of becoming unwell with a pneumococcal infection if:
• you’re aged 65 or over
• you’re under 65 and have certain health conditions
People aged 65 or over are more likely to suffer serious long-term health problems from pneumococcal infection. These health problems can lead to death.

The Pneumococcal Vaccine
The pneumococcal vaccine provides some protection against illnesses caused by pneumococcal bacteria.

How do I get my adult routine vaccinations?
You do not need to arrange your appointment. You’ll be contacted by the vaccination team when you’re eligible to be immunised. They’ll tell you the date and time of your appointment or how to book where your appointment will be. They’ll contact you by sending an invitation to your home address. This is the address that is registered with your GP. You can be invited for the vaccine at any time of the year.

Adult Non-routine Vaccinations
During Adult life sometimes we require other vaccines or repeated courses of vaccines if you have undergone or are about to undergo a transplant, chemotherapy or have been exposed to a blood borne virus or had a dog or human bite. These Vaccinations will be arranged via your Consultant or GP. You may also require a vaccine as you missed some vaccines during childhood. Your GP or Consultant will refer you for any vaccinations required. The Vaccination Service will arrange for the vaccines required and contact you with an appointment. We will do this on receipt of your referral. You do not need to do anything to receive your vaccination our contact centre will be in touch with an appointment.