‘Don’t leave the job half done’: Yousaf urges second dose take-up

Scotland’s health secretary has urged people “not to leave the job half done” on being vaccinated against Covid-19 and take up their second dose.

Humza Yousaf made the plea on the day the Scottish Government said all those eligible aged over 18 in Scotland would have been vaccinated, if they had taken up their appointment.

The latest figures published by the Scottish Government on Saturday show 84.7% of people aged over 18 have been double vaccinated, at 3,759,348, while 91.5% – a total of 4,060,246 – have been given a first dose.

The Scottish Government said some of those eligible have rearranged their appointment “for health or work reasons and will get their second dose shortly”.

Being double jabbed will make Scots eligible for their Covid-19 vaccine passport which will be required for entry to nightclubs and large events from October 1. England will not introduce vaccine passports, the UK health minister said on Sunday.

Vaccination clinics will remain open and anyone yet to be vaccinated is urged to go to their local drop-in clinic or book an appointment through NHS Inform.

Second vaccinations can be given eight weeks on from the first, give greater and longer lasting protection than a single vaccination and are more than 90% effective against hospital admissions from the effects of the virus.

Yousaf said: “Today is a significant day because every single adult in Scotland has now been given the opportunity to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

“I want to pass on my thanks to all those who have helped make this possible – from the scientists who developed the vaccine, to the hard-working staff delivering the programme on the ground. I also want to thank everyone who has taken up their offer of a vaccine, and rolled up their sleeves to help tackle coronavirus.

“To all those who haven’t yet had their second doses, please don’t leave the job half done. Even if the time since the first dose is more than eight weeks, people can still be vaccinated and I encourage them to come forward.”

He added: “We have made getting a vaccination easier than ever – head to one of the drop-in clinics being offered across the country or, if you prefer, book an appointment online at NHS Inform. Please check your NHS board’s social media posts for the latest information on where you can attend.

“Students heading to university or college from anywhere in the UK or abroad are reminded they too are urged to take up this offer if it’s relevant to them – indeed, in addition to drop-in clinics around the country, mobile vaccination units are visiting several further education campuses.

“Recent increases in case numbers mean it remains crucial everyone who is offered a vaccination takes up the invitation.”