WHY is vaccination important? It is constantly reiterated, but I feel the need to explain why.

Recent findings published by Eurosurveillance estimate 27,656 deaths have been directly averted as a result of Scotland’s Covid-19 vaccination programme. This equates to an estimated 86 per cent of deaths averted. This is a staggering amount of lives saved by choosing to get the Covid-19 vaccination for your own protection and the protection of others.

However, there is a small fraction of the population still not taking this seriously. We have accepted the virus will remain with us for a while to come but we all need to play our part to regain some normality. This isn’t possible when not all are complying with the guidance in place and, vitally, getting vaccinated.

A recent report from Public Health Scotland (PHS) states that from October 30 to November 26, the age standardised Covid-19 related acute hospital admission rates are lower for vaccinated individuals than unvaccinated individuals. It is a fact that more hospital admissions are people who have not taken the vaccine than those who have. Hospitalisation from the virus in many cases can now be avoided – the data has shown this again and again. There is no political motivation behind asking you to get a vaccination.

It is not only hospital admissions in the unvaccinated population but cases. Again, PHS has shown that from November 20 to 26, the case rate in unvaccinated populations was 411 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 individuals, compared to 253 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 individuals vaccinated with two or more doses.

Choosing to not get the vaccine, I personally believe is a reckless, irresponsible decision. We have made such a breakthrough finding vaccines that work and we need people to get their vaccine and booster to avoid additional restrictions. No one wants any further restrictions, I understand that loud and clear.

However, I make a plea: if you can, please get your vaccination and booster. You are protecting yourself and saving the lives of others.