Uptake rates of childhood vaccinations in Scotland remain high at around 95%, however there have been declines across baby and pre-school vaccinations in Scotland over the past decade.

Last winter, Scotland experienced very high levels of flu, with more than 6,500 adults becoming so ill that they were admitted to hospital. Despite this surge, flu vaccine uptake among health and social care workers, who are considered an at-risk group, remained low.

Last winter, Scotland experienced very high levels of flu, with more than 6,500 adults becoming so ill that they were admitted to hospital.

Students are at increased risk of infectious diseases like meningitis and measles. These diseases spread easily in universities and colleges, as students mix closely with others from around the country and overseas.  The new term is an opportunity to remind new and returning students about the free vaccinations they are eligible for. 

When a woman smokes during pregnancy, or when she is exposed to second-hand smoke, oxygen to the baby is restricted making the baby’s heart beat faster and exposing the baby to harmful toxins. As a result, smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke during pregnancy is responsible for an increased rate of stillbirth, miscarriage and birth defects. This exacerbates existing health inequalities as women from more deprived backgrounds are more likely to smoke during pregnancy and to be exposed to second-hand smoke during pregnancy.