Wednesday December 17th 2025
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
NHS Borders has issued a festive plea to the public after seeing an increase in flu cases across the region.
To help reduce the spread of infection, the public is being urged to protect themselves and others by practicing good hand hygiene, getting vaccinated if eligible and taking precautions when visiting healthcare settings.
Visitors can unintentionally introduce and spread common winter illnesses including flu, increasing the risk to staff and patients who are already really unwell.
An NHS spokesperson said: “To keep everyone as safe as possible we are strengthening infection control measures, including moving to essential visiting only more quickly during outbreaks.
“We have already taken precautionary steps such as closing rooms and bays in some areas over the last few weeks, but there have been no full ward closures.
“If you are visiting loved ones in hospital, please use hand gel before entering and when leaving the ward.
“If you have symptoms such as a cough, cold, sore throat, fever or stomach upset please wait until you are fully recovered and symptom-free for 48 hours before visiting to avoid infecting our staff and patients.
“While mask-wearing is not mandatory, anyone who wishes to wear one is welcome to do so. We continue to monitor the evolving situation closely and guidance may change throughout the winter.
“We urge everyone who is eligible to get their free flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible. These viruses can cause serious illness and even hospitalisation, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you this winter.”
Evidence from Public Health Scotland shows just how well this year’s flu vaccine is working: vaccinated children are 78 per cent less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu and vaccinated adults aged 65 and over are 37 per cent less likely to need hospital care.
COVID-19 vaccination also remains vital for reducing the risk of severe illness and protecting vulnerable groups. Every vaccine helps keep families safe, reduces pressure on our health services and prevents avoidable hospital admissions.
Drop-in clinics are available this week for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, with more clinics being advertised on NHS Borders Facebook page each week:
Thursday, December 18 – Hawick Community Hospital, 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Friday, December 19n- Hay Lodge Health Centre, 2pm – 3pm.
If these dates and times aren’t convenient, you can book an appointment at https://vacs.nhs.scot/csp.
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