More than 70% of adults have had booster or third dose of Covid vaccine

Over 70 per cent of adults in Scotland have had their Covid booster or third dose of the vaccine.

Figures published today show that 72 per cent of over 18s who are eligible have come forward, with 70,000 booster or third doses administered over each of the last two days.

Health secretary Humza Yousaf said: “Today’s figures reflect the enormous national effort which is going on right around the country to accelerate our vaccination programme in response to the Omicron variant. 

“There will be vaccination centres open on Christmas Eve, so we want to see as many people as possible getting their booster right up until Christmas. If that isn’t possible for you, centres will be re-opening from Monday 27th, so please book an appointment today, or look out for drop-ins, so you can join the thousands of people who have been boosted by the bells.

“Getting vaccinated is your civic duty, you not only protect yourself, but your loved ones, those you interact with and the country as whole, so please get your booster as soon as you can.”

Earlier, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she hoped the Covid self-isolation period could be reduced, but only when it is safe to do so.

In England, the isolation period has already been reduced from 10 days to seven.