Booster jabs are being rolled out across Scotland as we head into the second winter with Covid-19. 

The booster scheme means that certain groups will get a third dose of the Covid vaccine, in an attempt to boost immunity to the virus throughout winter. 

Government officials around the UK have been urging people to get their booster jags as hospitalisations with Covid begin to creep up. 

And with the increased circulation of colds, flus and viruses during the winter months, getting vaccinated could help to reduce load on the NHS. 

Here's what you need to know about who can get the booster jab and when you can book it... 

When can over-50s book the Covid vaccine?

Over-50s in Scotland will be invited to book the Covid booster online from mid-November.

So far, booster vaccines have been given to people in care homes and invites have been sent to those over-70 and people who are clinically vulnerable.

Front care health workers have also been invited to book their Covid booster jabs on the NHS inform Scotland website. 

Over-50s are also eligible for the booster jag, and the NHS Scotland website states that they will be able to book online from mid-November. 

Adult carers and unpaid carers aged 16+ will also be able to book online from mid-November. 

Which groups are eligible for the Covid booster vaccine?

The following groups are eligible for the booster vaccine in Scotland: 

  • All those over 16 who were initially in one of the nine priority groups, including all individuals aged 16 to 64 with underlying health conditions which put them at higher risk of serious disease and mortality
  • All those over-50
  • Frontline health and care staff

All over-12s who were severely immunosuppressed at the time of their first or second jab, including those with leukaemia, advanced HIV and recent organ transplants, will also receive a third dose of the vaccine, however this is independent from the booster scheme.