Surge in flu puts Scotland’s health services under ‘pressure’

The data found, external that among care homes in the country a “substantial number” had found influenza circulating, but residents were confirmed as having taken the flu vaccine to combat it.

PHS noted only “a small number of deaths” had been reported among care homes.

For intensive care units, the flu had caused “relatively little pressure” but PHS noted there was one case of a pregnant woman admitted to ICU due to influenza in the most recent reporting.

Over two thirds of people under the age of 65 but with underlying health conditions have still not been vaccinated against flu, mirroring trends elsewhere.

Dr Nicholas Phin, the director of public health science at PHS, said the current levels were “a concern”.

He said: “Although we always expect to see increases in flu in winter, currently we are seeing particularly high levels of the virus circulating. This is a concern, as flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

“Vaccination is one of the best tools we have in protecting against serious illness from flu.

“During this time of increased socialising, we urge everyone to take preventive measures to reduce flu, and other respiratory infections, being spread to others.”

Dr Phin advised people to stay at home if feeling unwell and to maintain hand and mouth hygiene to avoid spreading any viruses.