NHS Lothian is marking two years since Scotland’s roll out of the COVID-19 vaccine began on 8 December 2020.
Since then, more than 14.5 million doses of the vaccine have been administered in Scotland with 2,451,177 of those being given across Lothian.
The initial effort to protect people from the deadly virus was the biggest logistical operation Scotland had seen since the Second World War.
Thousands of volunteers signed up to help NHS staff, mass vaccination centres were rapidly assembled in major cities and mobile units toured the country.
This rapid deployment meant a million Scots were jabbed within three months – averting 27,656 deaths, according to the World Health Organisation, which noted Scotland’s quick uptake.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf commented: “When marking this milestone we must first remember all those who have lost a loved one to this virus and reflect on what has been an incredibly challenging time for everyone.
“As a nation we can be incredibly proud of our world-leading vaccination programme.
“This could not have happened without the incredible efforts of staff and volunteers across the country. Unfortunately COVID-19 has not gone away and I continue to urge everyone to take up the offer of a vaccination when they become eligible.”
Pat Wynne Nurse Director for Primary and Community Care, NHS Lothian said: “The past two years have been a hugely challenging time for everyone and we are hugely grateful to our team of vaccinators, support staff and to everyone who has come forward for vaccination as we mark the second anniversary of the COVID-19 vaccine roll out in Scotland.
“COVID-19 is still circulating and it can spread more easily during the winter months. So if you’re eligible and you’ve not had your vaccine yet please book an appointment online today for both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, or attend one of our drop-in clinics. By getting vaccinated you can top up your protection and reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell from the virus.”
Those who are eligible can book an appointment online at nhsinform.scot/wintervaccines or attend a drop-in clinic.
You can find out if you are eligible at nhsinform.scot/wintervaccines. More information on Lothian’s drop-in clinics is available at:
https://www.nhslothian.scot/HealthInformation/Immunisation/WinterVaccination/Pages/default.aspx
