From 13 May 2022, local people aged 65 and over and those with certain long-term health conditions will begin to receive appointments for their pneumococcal vaccine.

This vaccine was previously provided by GP practices. However, changes to the national GP contract sees this move to the responsibility of NHS Lanarkshire. This change is happening across all Scottish health boards.

Dr Mark Russell, Associate Medical Director, Health and Social Care North Lanarkshire, said: “People aged 65 or over, and adults with certain health conditions, have a higher chance of becoming unwell with pneumococcal infection. This type of infection can lead to illnesses including bacterial meningitis and pneumonia.

“Getting your pneumococcal vaccine, when invited, is the best way to help protect yourself against these illnesses. The vaccine is given in the upper arm and most people aged 65 or over will only need a single dose, which will help protect them for life.”

People who are eligible will receive a letter with details of their vaccination appointment. If your appointment is not suitable, or if you are unwell on the day of your appointment, you can attend one of our dedicated drop-in clinics for the pneumococcal vaccine. Details of these will be in your appointment letter.

Appointments will be held in our vaccination centres, set up for delivering the covid-19 vaccine.

There’s no need to contact your GP practice, as you will be contacted directly with details of your appointment.

For more information on the pneumococcal vaccine, visit www.nhsinform.scot/pneumococcalvaccine