OLDER residents in East Lothian will be invited to receive Covid-19 booster jags as Scotland’s winter vaccination programme gets under way.

Those aged 65 and over will be first in line for a winter booster jab to protect the most vulnerable from Covid-19 and ease the pressure on hospitals.

Residents who are eligible for the booster should begin to receive letters in the next few weeks with details about appointment times.

The booster jabs will be given at the same time as the flu vaccine where possible, as evidence shows that getting both vaccines together is a safe and efficient way to deliver maximum protection over the winter months.

Pat Wynne, nurse director for NHS Lothian who is overseeing this year’s programme, said: “All adults aged 65 years or over will be contacted shortly with a scheduled appointment for their Covid-19 booster and flu vaccination.

“Covid-19 vaccine immunity reduces and the flu virus changes over time, so it’s important those eligible top up their protection by getting vaccinated this winter.

“I’d encourage those who receive an appointment letter through the post to attend. If you’re unable to attend, please cancel or reschedule so we can offer the appointment to someone else.”

Frontline health and social care workers are also eligible for the winter booster jab, with the online portal to book vaccination appointments available from Monday.