Scotland’s winter vaccination programme for Covid and flu is set to begin on Monday for those eligible.
Invitations to book or attend an appointment have already been sent to those eligible for a flu vaccine by post, in a white NHS Scotland envelope, by email or text, depending on communication preferences.
“As precautionary measure, vaccination of people at highest risk such as care home residents and people aged 75 and over is being brought forward.”
This includes people who were initially set to receive their vaccinations from mid-October.
This change is being made in response to the spread of variant BA.2.86, also called Pirola, a new Omicron variant found in Scotland.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Gregor Smith said: "Work is ongoing to understand the new Covid-19 variant BA.2.86 more fully.
He added: “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself from serious illness and those eligible are encouraged to book or attend their appointment when invited to do so.
“Coming forward when called will also help to alleviate pressures on local health boards who are working to deliver the winter vaccination programme at pace.”
Vaccinations set to be brought forward after new Covid Pirola strain found in Scotland
2 September 2023
