Covid-19 vaccinations in GP and community settings in Clydebank have begun - starting with people aged 80 and over.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s vaccination team began administering the Oxford AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine in the area on Monday, January 11.

With age the greatest risk factor for serious illness and death from Covid-19, the first priority group for the vaccine is residents in a care home for older adults and their carers, people aged 80 or over, and frontline health and social care workers.

The eligible group will receive a letter or phone call from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde inviting them to attend a local centre for their vaccination and advising them where and when they can get it.

Dr Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Approval of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine is great news as it is logistically easier to administer in local settings, meaning that we can roll it out to more people. However, we’d urge patience as we work through priority groups in line with the vaccine supplies that we have available.

“Everyone will be invited forward for their vaccine in due course and there is no need for anyone to contact their GP.

“Whilst stay at home guidance is in place to suppress the spread of Covid-19, I’d encourage those eligible to attend their appointments when invited, as getting vaccinated remains a valid reason to leave your home.”

The vaccine requires two doses to offer the best possible protection; second dose appointments will be scheduled for 12 weeks after the first dose.

Local vaccination centres are located at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, at the four medical practices at Clydebank Health Centre, and at Old Kilpatrick Medical Practice.

Vaccination centres in north-west Glasgow are located in Yoker, Drumchapel, Knightswood, Scotstoun and Whiteinch.