Spring Covid booster vaccination rolled out for Highland over-75s

All residents in Lochaber and the rest of Highland aged over 75 or those who are immunosuppressed are being invited for a spring booster dose of the Covid vaccine.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that everyone in those cohorts should receive a spring booster dose of the vaccine 24 weeks - six months - after their initial booster.

Residents across NHS Highland will be invited to attend via letter by NHS Scotland. The initial focus is those at the greatest risk of Covid infection, including those living in care homes.

There is no need to contact NHS Highland or a GP practice, although people will be able to change their appointment date if required. Details of how to change an appointment are included in the letter.

Dr Tim Allison, NHS Highland’s director of public health, said: ‘Covid-19 infection may be more serious in older people and those with a weakened immune system. The protection from the vaccine may be lower and wear off more quickly in these people. The spring booster dose is being offered as a precaution to those at high risk of Covid-19 infection.

‘I would encourage everyone who is invited for a spring booster dose to attend their appointment and help to increase their level of protection against Covid-19.’