Immunisation is one of the most successful and cost-effective health interventions ever introduced. Every year, 3 million lives are saved world-wide from diseases such as tetanus, measles, polio, and diphtheria.
Immunisation refers to the process of receiving a vaccine and as a result of this, becoming immune to a disease. Vaccination is the process of receiving a vaccine i.e. receiving the injection, or taking an oral or nasal dose.
Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself against serious illness.
For young children, the elderly and those who are most vulnerable to coronavirus (COVID-19) and the flu, NHS Highland provide vaccination programmes. Millions of children and adults are offered the flu vaccine every autumn. Since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, there has also been the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination programme.
If you are at higher risk, you may be contacted directly by NHS Scotland to book an appointment with your local vaccination service.
In the UK, we are fortunate that we can also offer protection against:
If you are travelling outside of the UK, it is a good idea to seek information on which vaccinations are required and available before arranging travel plans.
To speak to someone about local immunisation programmes or for further advice and information, please contact a member of the NHS Highland Health Protection Team.
See more information at NHS inform about immunisation, including advice on how to help protect against serious, vaccine-preventable diseases. You'll also find schedule information as to when immunisations are offered, such as during pregnancy, infancy, adolescence and other times throughout your life, and where they'll be given.
NHS Scotland provides a number of vaccinations for people at different stages in their life. Find out about these vaccines, and the diseases they protect against.
Don’t let your protection fade this spring.
It's strongly recommended you get vaccinated for flu and coronavirus. Vaccines were offered to those eligible this pa...
Routine vaccinations for adults, and for during pregnancy.
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is also known as the PPV, pneumococcal or 'pneumo' vaccine.
Adults in Scotland are offered routine vaccination for shingles at age 65, or 70 or over.
Vaccinations available for babies, pre-school children and young people from 11 years.
NHS Scotland recommends all eligible children should get the vaccine to help protect them from influenza (flu).
You can get vaccinations for international travel at local community pharmacies.
Last updated: 21 March 2024
Next review date: 6 September 2024