Over 70% of eligible adults in Scotland have had booster dose

More than 70% of eligible adults in Scotland have now had their Covid-19 booster vaccination.

Statistics published by the Scottish Government on Friday indicated that over seven in ten of those eligible had been given their third dose.

According to the figures, a total of 72.1% of over 18s eligible by December 31 have come forward so far.

Over 70,000 booster doses have also been given per day over Wednesday and Thursday this week.

The Scottish Government has urged people across the country to get “boosted by the bells”, as the vaccination programme continues at pace.

It comes amidst concern over the threat posed by the Omicron variant – now the dominant strain across the country.

Health secretary Humza Yousaf described getting vaccinated as a “civic duty”, as he urged people to attend for their booster jab.

“Today’s figures reflect the enormous national effort which is going on right around the country to accelerate our vaccination programme in response to the Omicron variant,” he said.

“I want to thank absolutely everyone who has been involved in the programme, and all the people who have stepped up and come in for their booster.

“There will be vaccination centres open on Christmas Eve, so we want to see as many people as possible getting their booster right up until Christmas.

“If that isn’t possible for you, centres will be re-opening from Monday 27, so please book an appointment today, or look out for drop-ins, so you can join the thousands of people who have been boosted by the bells.

“Getting vaccinated is your civic duty, you not only protect yourself, but your loved ones, those you interact with and the country as whole, so please get your booster as soon as you can.”