The NHS Lanarkshire Vaccination Team is urging everyone offered a COVID-19 vaccine this spring to come forward, get vaccinated and stay protected because COVID-19 is still circulating.
Last summer in Scotland, there were more than 10,000 reported cases of COVID-19 and over 4,000 people hospitalised.
This year’s spring vaccination programme is focused on protecting those most vulnerable to COVID-19. This includes older adults in care homes, people aged 75 and over, and those with a weakened immune system, as they are at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
If you’re invited for a COVID-19 vaccination this spring, it’s because it has been clinically indicated that due to your age or health condition you’re at higher risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19.
You get your strongest protection from the vaccine in the first three months after getting it. Over time, this protection gradually fades so, even if you had your winter vaccination, it’s important to get another dose this spring to reinforce your immunity and help keep you safe.
Dr Henry Prempeh, Immunisation Co-ordinator, said: “Even if you feel healthy or your medical condition is well-managed, scientific evidence shows that older people and those with certain underlying conditions are more likely to get seriously ill from a COVID-19 infection.
Getting vaccinated could mean the difference between a mild illness and a hospital stay.”
Appointments for the spring vaccination programme are being issued to eligible Lanarkshire residents now with the programme running until the end of June.
If you’re eligible, you will be invited by letter, email or text message, depending on your selected communication preference.
You can reschedule your appointment using the online portal or via the National Vaccination Helpline (0800 030 8013).
Find more information on the spring programme at www.nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine
