Question reference: S6W-22738
- Asked by: Sue Webber, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 7 November 2023
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Current status: Answered by Jenni Minto on 14 November 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether its guidance for people with weakened immune systems regarding the COVID-19 winter booster vaccination has been adapted from previous vaccine programmes to reflect any benefit of repeat vaccines for at-risk groups.
Answer
Information and resources on vaccination are regularly updated to reflect the most recent scientific data and evidence.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice for those at risk, including those with a weakened immune system, is that protection from the COVID-19 vaccines is best during the first three months after vaccination. Protection from the COVID-19 vaccines does not stop after three months, but slowly begins to fade. This is why those at risk are invited forward for their booster vaccinations during seasonal programmes. These messages are reflected in our winter vaccine resources. The “Don’t let your protection fade” public marketing campaign also focuses on the importance of revaccination.
Individuals who develop severe immunosuppression may be at high risk of COVID-19 and less able to sustain any protection from previous vaccination or exposure. These individuals can be considered for additional doses of vaccination, outside of seasonal campaigns, based on clinical judgement.