Certain demographic are currently being invited to receive their spring Covid-19 booster jab in the face of high infection rates across the country.
Edinburgh Live reported on Sunday that the city has seen a major surge in cases of the virus in March, with hospitalisations hitting record highs.
Recent statistics reveal that the City of Edinburgh reported more than 7,000 new cases last week equating to a transmission rate of 800+ cases per 100,000 people.
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In an effort to curb the spread of the Omicron BA. 2 variant — which is now the dominant strain in the country — spring boosters are being rolled out across Scotland to those most vulnerable.
Here is everything you need to know about the jab, including who is eligible.
Who is eligible for the spring Covid-19 booster?
The spring booster jab is currently being offered at highest risk of developing severe Covid-19 after exposure to the virus.
As stated by the Scottish Government, the vaccine is currently being offered to:
- Adults aged 75 years and over (or will turn 75 by 30 June 2022)
- Residents in care homes for older adults
- Individuals aged 12 years and over who have a weakened immune system
Another booster in the autumn, which will reportedly be targeted at a wider group of people, is being planned.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “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.
“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.”
When can I receive my spring Covid booster?
Those who are eligible have already started receiving invitations to get their jab.
The NHS Inform website states: "The spring booster dose will usually be offered around 6 months since your last dose of the coronavirus vaccine.
"Some people may be invited sooner than this (at least 3 months since their last dose) to help protect them against any increase in coronavirus infections."
How can I book my spring Covid booster?
People who are eligible to receive the spring booster dose of the Covid-19 vaccine will be contacted by NHS Scotland to arrange an appointment.
Therefore, if you fall into any of the eligible categories, you do not need to do anything and will be informed when it is your turn to get your jab.
Vaccine appointments can also be booked online through NHS Scotland using the same username and password details you set up for your first 2 doses of coronavirus vaccine.
