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:
- older adults living in care homes
- frontline health and social care workers
- all adults aged 40 years or over
- adults aged 16 years or over with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe coronavirus
- unpaid carers aged 16 years or over
- adults aged 16 years or over who live with someone with a severely weakened immune system
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're aged 60 years or over or if you're aged 16 years or over and have an underlying health condition, you will be invited to your vaccination appointment by letter or phone call. If you have not been invited yet, you can log in online or phone the national vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013 to check if an appointment has been booked for you.
All other eligible groups can book their vaccination online.
Information about how and when you will be vaccinated is available on our guide to vaccination. Please do not phone your GP practice or NHS 24 for this information.