PARENTS in Renfrewshire who have children aged between 12 and 15 are being urged to make sure they get their second dose of the Covid vaccine as soon as possible.

The Scottish Government has brought forward the timescale for giving follow-up jabs to this age group in response to the spread of the Omicron variant of the virus.

Drop-in sessions are now available for those aged 12 to 15, while youngsters who have already been given a date for their second vaccination can call a helpline to bring their appointment forward and get protection from the virus earlier.

Following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, this age group can get their second jab from 12 weeks after their first dose.

NHS Inform and the website for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde provide details of drop-in sessions in the local area.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “Additional vaccinator capacity means we are now in a position to offer second doses to the 12 to 15 age group earlier than previously planned.

“I would urge them to take up the offer as early as they can, to receive greater protection from the virus.

“The festive season saw a major effort to get adults boosted by the Bells but we need to keep up momentum and make sure everyone is protected from the virus, particularly with the emergence of the new Omicron variant.”

Anyone under the age of 18 who has previously tested positive for Covid must wait 12 weeks from infection to be given their second dose.

Youngsters who have already received a scheduled appointment can bring it forward by calling 0800 030 8013.

For more information, visit www.nhsggc.org.uk.