By Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Vaccination and Immunisation Division

Welcome to the first edition of the reinstated Scottish Vaccine Update.

Going forward, this publication will provide regular current information, both clinical and programmatic, for Scotland’s vaccination workforce.

This edition will focus particularly on pertussis (whooping cough) by looking at the increase in cases in 2024, and outlining the latest updates in the maternal pertussis programme, including changes from July onwards.

Over the years there have been many changes to the overall vaccination programme we offer in Scotland. This includes schedule changes, eligibility changes and the introduction of new vaccines, all of which have enabled increased prevention and protection for our population.

The vaccines we offer protect against diseases that can affect anyone at all stages of life.

When we think about vaccination, we often think primarily about the most obvious impact they have: they protect and they prevent.

For an individual this means protection against the risk of severe illness and potentially life-changing consequences or complications, but there may be much wider impacts than the initial period of illness.

For example, a vaccine-preventable disease such as pertussis in an infant can also impact upon their feeding, their attachment and increased parental anxiety during what can often be a prolonged period of illness.

The wider impacts of vaccination are also in terms of reduced pressure on healthcare and associated costs, which can include primary care appointments, hospitalisations, medicine use, plus any long-term complications, which will also be prevented.

Vaccination is one of the most effective health interventions we have, and it takes a lot of people to make a vaccination programme happen.

I’d therefore like to take this opportunity to thank all staff involved in Scotland’s vaccination programmes, as without your engagement and unwavering support for the public health agenda our communities would remain unprotected.

Providing this monthly update will keep healthcare practitioners informed on the latest activity within each of the vaccine programmes as we continue to collaborate with key stakeholders and work towards a Scotland where everybody thrives.