Our communication officer David updates us on the latest government announcement for the COVID-19 autumn booster.
We have already received some enquiries about the autumn booster for people with epilepsy.
The good news is that people with epilepsy yet again are included in the at risk group. This makes them eligible for the autumn booster.
The Scottish Government have now confirmed all the groups which are eligible for the autumn booster, following the final advice given by the UK Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
People who are eligible for autumn COVID-19 booster
In terms of epilepsy, every child aged 5 and over, and adult, with epilepsy will be offered the autumn booster.
This is the list of people who are eligible:
- Anyone who is a resident in a care home for older adults, and also their staff
- Frontline health and social care workers
- All adults aged 50 and over
- Those aged 5 to 49 years in a clinical risk group, this includes anyone who has epilepsy. If you are 50 and over, you will automatically be offered the booster because of your age.
- Those aged 5 to 49 years who are household contacts of people who have a compromised immune system
- Any carer aged 16 to 49 years
Some people have also asked us about the flu vaccine.
Unfortunately, the official position on this has not changed. Epilepsy on its own does not automatically entitle people with epilepsy to the flu vaccine.
Doctors can, however, apply some discretion recognising that flu symptoms such as a high temperature can sometimes trigger seizures in some people.
If you are concerned, speak to your GP. You may still get it if you fall into one of the eligible groups such as those with health conditions which compromise the immune system.
The flu vaccine programme will be extended later in the year to also include secondary school pupils and adults aged 50 or over.
You can also buy a flu vaccine at most chemists.
If you have any questions regarding the COVID-19 autumn booster, please call our freephone helpline on 0808 800 2200 or email contact@epilepsyscotland.org.uk
