People across Scotland have been getting the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine. Now a booster vaccine is being rolled out - starting with those most at risk.
Why should I get the vaccine booster?
Like some other vaccines, levels of protection may begin to reduce over time. The coronavirus vaccine booster dose will help extend the protection you gained from your first two doses and give you longer-term protection.
Am I eligible for the vaccine booster?
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommends that the booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine is offered to:
- those living in residential care homes for older adults
- frontline health and social care workers
- all adults aged 50 years or over
- adults aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health
conditions that put them at higher risk of severe coronavirus - adult carers (aged 16 or over)
- household contacts (aged 16 or over) of immunosuppressed individuals
If you're eligible, your flu and coronavirus booster vaccines will be given at the same time, one in each arm.
When can I get the vaccine booster?
The booster dose can be offered any time at least 6 months after your second dose.
If you have not had either your first or second dose of the coronavirus vaccine, you should register to have them first.
Vaccine invitations
NHS Scotland are following the JCVI advice and offering a booster dose to those most at risk first.
If you live or work in a care home, your local health board is making arrangements with your care home to arrange your booster vaccine.
If you are aged 70 or over or if you were previously on the shielding list and are aged 16 or over, you will receive a vaccine invitation.
If you're an eligible health and social care worker, you can book your vaccination online.
Information about how to arrange your vaccination for all other eligible individuals will be available soon. Please do not phone your GP practice or NHS 24 for this information.