Rachael Hamilton MSP raised the issue of flu vaccinations at First Minister’s Questions and demanded the SNP Government ensures the NHS is properly prepared for the winter ahead.
Both Ms Hamilton and the First Minister urged anyone who has not done so yet, to arrange an appointment to receive a flu vaccination.
However, figures today from the National Records of Scotland (NRS) have shown that the predicted number of “winter deaths” are expected to rise this winter in the Borders.
The figures demonstrate that expected deaths between December and March this year are expected to rise to 570, an increase of 94 deaths, up 20% compared to the same period last year.
Deaths during the winter months are generally higher than the rest of the year due to increased levels of pneumonia and influenza.
The figures show that the number of increased mortalities in the winter period (seasonal difference) is expected to increase, as well as the number of winter deaths.
Since last year, 2016/17, the number of increased mortalities in the winter period in the Borders is expected to increase by 78 deaths to 136, an increase of almost 135%.
Since 2011, the seasonal difference in winter deaths across Scotland will increase by approximately 330%.
Although the figures for 2017/18 are provisional, the NRS have indicated that only a “small percentage” of these statistics are likely to change significantly.
The upward trend in winter deaths follows reports that the Scottish Government did not acquire enough flu vaccinations this year and have instructed GPs to only administer the precautionary measure to those aged over 75.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“The SNP must take urgent action to prepare the NHS properly for winter and make sure that all our elderly and vulnerable patients get the new recommended flu vaccination.
“This year, the SNP is denying over 65s the new flu vaccination, which could lead to more elderly people having more incidence and more complications due to flu.
“I have raised this issue with the First Minister and I did not receive a constructive response, as she passed the buck on blaming ‘supply issues’
“This is simply unacceptable, when we know the English NHS managed to order the new vaccination one time for over 65s.
“As these worrying statistics continue to emerge, it is quite clear that the SNP cannot be trusted to run our health service effectively.”