BORDERS MSP Christine Grahame is urging locals to take up the offer of a free flu vaccination.

Those aged 65 and over, pregnant women and people at most risk of serious illness are all offered the flu vaccination on the NHS.

And Ms Grahame is encouraging people to get protected after latest figures showed flu rates in Scotland doubled in December.

Statistics from Health Protection Scotland revealed around 46 Scots in every 100,000 were suffering from the virus, compared to 22 in every 100,000 for the same period in 2016.

The SNP member for Tweeddale and Lauderdale said: “It’s not too late to get the flu jab – and if you’re eligible for vaccination on the NHS it’s important that you take that offer.

"I learned the hard way to take up the flu jab having been laid low for two weeks before Christmas with nausea, fatigue and aching muscles which has made me determined to be first in the queue next year.

“Cases of flu were at double the rate in December as the previous year, and can be a serious illness that can make even healthy people very unwell. NHS staff are doing a tremendous job at a tough time of year, and we should all do our bit to not add unnecessary pressure on the health service.

“If you’re eligible, please make getting the vaccination a priority and book an appointment with your GP practice or health board as soon as possible.”