Adults in Forth Valley who have yet to take up the offer of the Covid-19 vaccine, or are due their second dose, are being urged to visit one of the additional drop-in clinics running in the Forth Valley area this weekend.

No appointment is necessary and people can attend any clinic in the Forth Valley area or across Scotland, whether they are due a first dose or second dose of the vaccine, if eight weeks have passed.

Drop-in clinics will continue after Sunday, but this weekend will see extended clinics running to make it as easy as possible for people to get their vaccine, as the first dose phase of the programme nears completion. Anyone who wishes to book an appointment can also arrange this via NHS Inform.

The vaccine is the best protection against coronavirus and NHS Forth Valley today reiterated the importance of getting the vaccine to both reduce the risk of developing coronavirus and make symptoms milder if people test positive for the virus. NHS Forth Valley has been promoting the most up-to-date details of clinics across the area via social media to encourage local people to attend and details of the dates, times and locations can also be found on our website.

Jillian Taylor, NHS Forth Valley’s Operational Lead for the Covid-19 vaccination programme, said: “Getting the Covid-19 vaccine has never been easier. If you’ve yet to take up the offer of a vaccine, for whatever reason, now is the time to come forward.

“Drop-in clinics are continuing to run in a number of locations across the Forth Valley area this weekend. You don’t need an appointment and can drop in at a local venue convenient to you, here in Forth Valley or anywhere in Scotland.

“We know that getting both doses of the vaccine offers maximum protection against the virus, so if you have not yet had your first jab, or it has been longer than eight weeks since your first jab, come along to your nearest clinic and we will get you vaccinated for your second.”

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “We are currently working through the final group on the JCVI priority list – those aged between 18 and 29 – and we know that the extra drop-in clinics being operated by mainland health boards until Sunday make it easier for them to fit getting vaccinated into their busy lives. Walk-in’s will still be available after this week but now is the time to take advantage of all the facilities on offer.

“The vaccination programme is working – evidence shows vaccination is weakening the link between case numbers and severe acute illness. However, case numbers are still high and vaccination continues to be the best way to protect yourself and those around you.

“I want to thank all those involved in setting up these clinics and of course, everyone involved in the national vaccination programme. It has been a huge success and without doubt, represents our best way out of the pandemic.”

For more information on the Covid-19 vaccine, or to book an appointment, visit NHS Inform.