HEALTH chiefs have apologised after patients were turned away from Covid booster jag appointments in Glasgow yesterday. 

Chaos unfolded at vaccination clinics as confusion saw some offered an additional dose while others were refused their appointments. 

The blunder came two days after the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) updated official advice in the wake of an outbreak of the new coronavirus variant, Omicron. 

It recommended the interval between a second dose and a booster vaccination should be reduced to three months from six months.

Glasgow Times: Humza YousafHumza Yousaf (Image: PA)

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Health Secretary Humza Yousaf encouraged those who already have a booster vaccination appointment booked in six months after their second jab to move it forward. 

The breakdown in communication saw people turned away from appointments unless they had 24 weeks between their second vaccination and booster appointment.

One person said: "Just got turned away from my booster jab at Glasgow Mosque. Even though I had an appointment, even though the JCVI advice say I'm eligible, NHSGGC not letting anyone in unless there's 24 weeks between second jab and booster appointment.

"Bit annoying."

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde apologised for patients being turned away from booster vaccinations but advised clinics were busier than usual due to the outbreak of the new variant. 

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A spokesperson said: "The announcement of the new variant has led, understandably, to our clinics being busier. Vaccinators have been working incredibly hard over the last 12 months and we are thankful for their continued commitment to ensuring those receiving their vaccinations, are processed both swiftly and safely.

"With changes in advice for booster jags, and the emergence of a new variant, drop-in clinics may be busier than normal. We would like to thank members of the public for their patience and support given to our vaccination teams when attending for their vaccination.

"We are sorry that some people have not been able to access their booster vaccination, but our teams must work within current national guidelines.

"As changes to these guidelines were made today, it is imperative that we are able to review the associated, detailed documentation, assess the new requirements and identify any necessary operational changes, which then will be implemented by our teams at the earliest possible opportunity."