As she received her COVID-19 and flu vaccines at Glasgow Central Mosque Vaccination Centre, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon took the opportunity to thank everyone contributing to making this year’s winter vaccination programme a success.
More than 2.7 million winter vaccines have been delivered since the 2022 programme got underway.
The COVID-19 vaccine is being given at the same time as the flu jab where possible, with 92.8% of those getting a COVID vaccine also getting their flu vaccine.
The 50-64 year-old cohort is currently being invited to book an appointment, following the rapid vaccination of frontline healthcare staff and the country’s most vulnerable, over 65s and those at high-risk, and care home residents.
Anyone who has missed an appointment can reschedule through the NHS Inform online booking portal.
Speaking after receiving her jags, the First Minister said:
“Part of the reason we have been able to get back to much more normality is because of vaccination and the protection it gives us.
“But COVID hasn’t gone away, it’s still a risk, and it’s still circulating in the community, so vaccination is as important now as it was at the start of the programme.
“Those in the eligible groups for vaccination are considered to be at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell if they get COVID or flu, so it’s really important to book an appointment and get vaccinated – to protect yourself and others.
“Uptake is high, but there is no room for complacency.
“I am hugely grateful to every single person who is delivering this vaccination programme across the country – they are doing an absolutely outstanding job and helping to save lives.”
