NHS Borders has revealed the details of its COVID-19 booster vaccination programme.

Earlier this week, the Scottish Government confirmed that certain groups would be in line to receive a third dose.

A booster will be offered to frontline health and social care staff; those aged 50 and over; and those with underlying health conditions putting them at greater risk.

An NHS Borders spokesperson said: “COVID-19 booster vaccinations will be offered to the same groups who were prioritised in winter and spring 2020/21, and JCVI have advised that at least 24 weeks should have passed since receiving the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, before a booster is administered.

“The way that all vaccinations are delivered in the Borders has changed.

“Vaccinations will now be administered by NHS Borders in community clinics instead of by individual GP practices.

“Some vaccinations may still be administered in a practice building by NHS Borders staff. Those who are housebound will continue to get their vaccination at home and care home residents will get their vaccination in their care home setting.

“Please do not contact your GP practice to book your appointment as they will not be able to book it for you.”

According to the spokesperson, the COVID-19 booster and flu programmes will run together.

NHS Borders’ teams will start offering COVID-19 booster and flu vaccinations to care home residents and staff from September 24. They will then offer vaccinations to those eligible who are housebound from October 4.

Those aged 70 years and over and adults aged 16 years and over who are on the highest risk list (previously known as the shielding list) will receive their appointment details by post (blue envelope) for their COVID-19 and flu vaccination soon.

People on the highest risk list who were severely immunosuppressed at the time of their last COVID-19 vaccination will be offered a third primary dose instead of a booster.

Other eligible groups, including those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions, adult carers, unpaid and young carers, adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals and all adults over 50 will be able to book their appointment online from October.