Eligible people in the Western Isles urged to take up COVID-19 vaccine this spring

NHS Western Isles is urging everyone offered a COVID-19 vaccine this spring to come forward, get vaccinated and stay protected – because COVID-19 hasn’t disappeared. 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. You’re eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine this spring if you are:

• aged 75 years and over
• in a care home for older adults
• over the age of 6 months and have a weakened immune system

If you’re invited for a COVID-19 vaccination this spring, it’s because experts know that your age or health condition mean 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.

NHS Western Isles Health Protection and Screening Nurse Specialist, Isabell MacInnes, 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.”

The spring vaccination programme runs from 31 March until 30 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 contact the Western Isles Vaccination helpline on 0808 196 8383 or email wi.vaccination@nhs.scot (phoneline open Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm).  

Find more information on the spring programme at www.nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine