Flu jabs in Forres and Moray: 'problems will be resolved in 10 days'

Problems surrounding this year's flu jabs should be resolved within the next 10 days – and everyone who's eligible will receive the vaccine.

That's the claim being made by NHS Grampian which has said sorry for the widespread issue of appointment letters being sent out late.

The health board has also apologised that a helpline established to deal with the situation has been overwhelmed by calls from anxious callers.

The situation has left many across Moray aged over 65, or in the at-risk categories, still waiting to be told when they can have the vaccine.

However, extra staff have now been tasked with answering calls and emails, while additional phonelines are also being put in place from tomorrow.

NHS Grampian says that in excess of 40,000 have now had their jabs – with more than 1,500 being added to that total each day.

The health board's deputy chief executive, Adam Coldwells, said: "Work continued at pace over the weekend to resolve these issues and to deliver the vaccine.

"In the next ten days we expect to be ahead in terms of getting letters delivered and people should be receiving these in good time.

"Unfortunately it is likely in next few days some people may receive their letters either on the day or after their appointment.

"These people do not need to worry, they should call the helpline and we will book them back in."

Mr Coldwells has also sort to reassure those yet to receive their appointments.

He added: "We need people to be patient with us. Everyone will receive their appointment letter in the next three to four weeks.

"Please do not call the helpline if you haven’t received your letter. We will get to you.

"If you do need to call the helpline if you could leave it until later in the week that would be very helpful.

"Please be reassured people who have missed their appointment will get another.

"Anyone who has not received a letter, please don't worry, the flu programme runs for many weeks yet.

"The letters are send out in batches not all at the same time.

"No one will miss out on their vaccine as a result of these issues – that’s very important to remember.

"We’ve apologised for the issues and we’re working extremely hard to get back on track.

"It’s the first time we have delivered the vaccine like this and there has absolutely been teething issues and a learning curve.

"We had logistical problems getting the vaccine to some venues and, again, that’s something we’re working to avoid a repeat of."

This year is the first that Scotland's 14 health boards have been in charge of delivering flu jabs rather than GP practices.

The change pre-dates the pandemic, having been agreed in 2018 between the Scottish government and British Medical Association trade union as part of the new GP contract.

It has also coincided with more people than ever being offered flu jabs.

The stated aim of this was to try reduce the strain on the health service as it deals with coronavirus.

In addition to over 65s, health workers, those with medical conditions, social care workers, families of shielders and over 55s are also now eligible for a flu jab.