First minister gets swine flu jab

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/8427429.stm

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Long-term asthmatic Alex Salmond has received the swine flu jab, it has been confirmed by the SNP.

The first minister was also given the seasonal flu vaccination at a GP surgery in Mintlaw on Monday.

Mr Salmond, who is in one of the at-risk categories, has encouraged all people to get vaccinated when invited by their doctor's surgery.

Health workers, priority groups and the under fives have all been offered the vaccination.

Following Mr Salmond's vaccination, Dr Douglas Nicol of the Mintlaw Surgery said: "The vaccination campaign is proceeding well, but it is very important that we continue to promote it, because increasing the number of people who are vaccinated reduces the potential pool for the infection to spread, and thus lessens the scope for a third wave."

A spokesperson for Mr Salmond said: "The first minister is encouraging everyone to get vaccinated when invited to do so.

"Vaccination isn't just good for the individual, it also boosts protection for the whole community by minimising the numbers who can get infected."

Fifty-six people have died in Scotland from swine flu and more than 1,400 people have been hospitalised.