Let’s get vaccinated

SHINGLES AND PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE PROGRAMME 2024

NHS Grampian are launching their 2024 Shingles Vaccination Programme. Letters are currently being sent out to all individuals who are eligible. The first group of individuals to be invited will be:-

a) Those individuals who have a severely weakened immune system aged 50 and over.

b) People aged 50 or over, about to start immunosuppressive therapy.

c) Individuals aged 71 and over who have not previously received a shingles vaccine.

d) Individuals who will be 70 years and 65 years (on or before the 1st September 2023)

This rolling programme will commence from the 8th of January 2024 and continue throughout the year. If you are eligible you will receive a letter, please do not contact your GP or the Health Board. If you wish to check if you are currently eligible please use the Age Calculator.

The Pneumococcal Vaccine programme will be running concurrently and again you will be invited by letter if you are eligible.

Both Shingles and Pneumococcal vaccines can be given at the same time, so you may be offered both at the same appointment if you are eligible. Further information is available at NHS Inform Shingles vaccine (nhsinform.scot)

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.

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.