Thousand of Scots receive second vaccine appointment early

Here's what to do if you are given an appointment less than eight weeks after your first jag..

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 22nd Jun 2021
Last updated 22nd Jun 2021

The Scottish Government say they've been made aware of around eight thousand people receiving second dose Covid vaccine appointments ahead of their eight week interval from the first jag.

They say it has been caused by a 'temporary fault' in the scheduling system, which has since been resolved.

They are telling those effected not to attend their appointments if it's ahead of schedule, instead those effected should call the helpline on 0800 030 8013 or visit this website.

Although health boards are attempting to contact those identified as having early appointments themselves.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “We have been made aware of a system error which has led to a number of people being called forward for their second vaccination ahead of the eight week recommended interval.

“We apologise to those affected and NHS boards are in the process of making contact with them to offer them a new appointment time or the option of attending a drop-in clinic when their second dose is due."

There are some exemptions, as explained by the health secretary:

“If you are immunosuppressed and have an earlier second dose appointment for clinical reasons, please go along as planned. It’s important to stress that there is no clinical risk associated with receiving the vaccine earlier than eight weeks.

“We are liaising with boards to ensure that there are staff on hand at vaccination clinics to offer further advice and reassurance.”

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