Campaign overviews

Viruses like flu and COVID-19 spread more easily during the colder months when we spend more time indoor with others. That’s why those most at risk of getting seriously ill are being offered the flu and COVID-19 vaccines. It’s important to encourage those who are eligible to take up the offer of vaccination to get the best protection this winter.

Social care workers who are in direct contact with patients or service users are eligible for the flu vaccine this year. It is recommended eligible staff take up the offer of vaccination to protect themselves and those in their care.

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.

This winter, the free flu vaccine is being offered to certain poultry workers and bird handlers to protect them from getting ill with the flu virus.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2025) presents a key opportunity to raise awareness of breast screening.

National Eye Health Week (22 – 28 September 2025) provides an opportunity to promote awareness and understanding around the importance of diabetic eye screening (DES).

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

Public Health Scotland has developed a social media toolkit to raise awareness about the vaccines offered during pregnancy and to help expectant mothers understand the importance of vaccination.

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. 

In Scotland, all children aged 2 to 5 years (not yet in school) are offered the nasal (nose) spray flu vaccine.

In Scotland, all children and young people in primary and secondary school are offered the nasal (nose) spray flu vaccine.