18–49-year olds asked to ‘Roll Up Your Sleeves’ for the COVID-19 vaccination

People aged 18 to 49 are now being invited forward for the COVID-19 vaccine, as Scotland aims to vaccinate all adults in Scotland by the end of July, depending on vaccine supply

Those aged 40-49 will be invited first, followed by those 30-39 and then 18-29.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Nicola Steedman, said: “The coronavirus vaccination programme has been a huge logistical challenge as we seek to get first doses to all adults in Scotland by the end of July and we are now inviting those in the younger age groups forward.

“It’s really important that people take up the vaccine when offered it. You can get really ill with coronavirus at any age. The vaccine provides our best way out of the coronavirus pandemic and a return, in time, to the things we’ve all missed.”

Professor Emma Thompson of the University of Glasgow Virus Research, added: “Each vaccine passes through a three-phase testing process, reviewed by independent regulatory and advisory bodies, to ensure it is effective and safe.

“Licensed COVID-19 vaccines have passed through the same rigorous tests as all other vaccines in tens of thousands of participants who have taken part in trials around the world, and we continue to monitor for side-effects even after licensing in the millions of people who have already received the vaccine.”

Those who have been vaccinated should continue to follow FACTS as it will take time to establish the impact of the vaccine on transmission of the virus.

For more information visit nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine or call the COVID-19 vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013.