People aged over 75 and those most at risk from Covid to be given booster jabs

People aged over 75 and those most at risk from severe Covid-19 are being given their additional booster vaccination from Monday.

It was announced in February that an additional booster would be offered from the second week in March due to the waning of protection by vaccines over time.

From March 7, those 75-years-old and older, residents in care homes for older adults, and people aged over 12 who are immunosuppressed, will be able to get a further dose at least 24 weeks after their last Covid jab.

Letters are also now being sent out to parents and guardians inviting children aged five to 11 for their first vaccination appointments.

Those with specific medical conditions within that age group have already been invited for their vaccinations.

Scotland’s deputy chief medical officer Professor Nicola Steedman has previously explained that the additional booster dose will improve people’s level of protection “significantly”.

Health secretary Humza Yousaf urged people who are eligible to get their dose when it is available to them.

“We know that those in high-priority groups are at higher risk of serious illness from Covid-19, and I therefore welcome the start of the rollout which will offer a further dose to these people,” he said.

“Vaccination has been our most effective tool against coronavirus. However, the degree of protection offered wanes over time, which is why booster vaccination is needed to maintain the best protection against Covid-19 for those at highest risk of severe effects of the virus.

“The additional booster dose will improve your level of protection significantly and is the best way to protect your health and those around you.

“I continue to encourage everyone to receive the doses they are eligible for as and when they become available.”