Vaccine trialists to be offered new jabs
It comes after many people who took part in vaccine trials complained of being unable to access proper 'vaccine passports'
People who took part in trials for COVID-19 vaccines which have not yet been authorised for use in the UK will be able to request an additional primary course of approved vaccinations.
The change is set out in the latest recommendations by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and is aimed at easing the problems faced by some participants in trials for vaccines, such as Novavax, Medicago or Valneva, in accessing international travel.
Many people who took part in such trials have been frustrated after finding they cannot access a QR code 'vaccine passport' like the majority of others.
Whilst in most cases they've been provided with a letter, some venues do not accept these.
The worry on this has only been heightened with the Scottish Government confirming earlier this week that they are looking into possibly extending certification to be required in other areas over the Christmas period.
At the moment you need to prove you've been double jabbed to enter nightclubs and big events like some football matches.
People who have taken part in vaccination trials should also receive booster jabs if they are eligible, the latest JCVI guidance confirms.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Gregor Smith has written to health boards setting out the new advice. Trial Principal Investigators will also write to participants informing them that they can now seek an additional course of primary vaccination.
Dr Smith said: "I am extremely grateful to everyone who has taken part in COVID-19 vaccine trials in Scotland for the important contribution they have made in tackling the pandemic.
"The Scottish and UK Governments have been working with international partners to agree recognition for COVID-19 clinical trial participants, but there is still currently no internationally agreed policy.
"Allowing participants in trials for vaccines which are not yet authorised in the UK to request another primary vaccination course with authorised vaccines should help to resolve this situation. The JCVI has also agreed that those who have participated in clinical trials will be offered a booster vaccination in accordance with the criteria set for the wider booster programme."
Trial participants, who would like to discuss the possibility of receiving a primary course of a UK authorised vaccine, should contact the Principal Investigator (PI) organising their trial in the first instance.
Once vaccinated with an additional primary course, individuals will be able to travel internationally in the same way as anyone vaccinated in Scotland, with their record of vaccination showing them as fully vaccinated with a UK authorised vaccine.