Scotland's winter vaccination programme is now beneath method with plans to convey appointments ahead for these most vulnerable to changing into critically ailing from flu and COVID.

It comes because the UK Health Security Agency stated plans were under way to restart COVID surveillance across the UK by means of monitoring an infection charges, hospitalisations and new variants.

BA.2.86, classed as a "variant of interest", was detected in Scotland on August 16. Less than a fortnight afterward 29 August, it was present in wastewater in one other NHS board space.

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Although BA.2.86 will not be but thought of a variant of concern, it has a "high number of mutations". NHS officers stated it's the most regarding new pressure since Omicron first emerged.

The pressure has already been present in a number of international locations, together with Denmark, Israel and the US.

Invitations to e-book or attend an appointment for the jabs have already been despatched to these eligible. They embody care residence residents, these aged over 75, and people with weakened immune methods who're set to be vaccinated from mid-October.

PHS reported 1,342 COVID circumstances in Scotland within the week ending 27 August.

Dr Nick Phin, director of public well being science at PHS, stated: "We are persevering with to watch the emergence and prevalence of COVID-19 variants in Scotland by means of our surveillance programme.

"While we are not concerned about the current levels of COVID-19, the identification of BA.2.86 in Scotland means that we are now working with health boards to ensure those most vulnerable to illness are protected this winter.

"Getting vaccinated is one of the simplest ways to guard your self from severe sickness and people eligible are inspired to e-book or attend their appointment when invited to take action.

"Coming forward when called will also help to alleviate pressures on local health boards who are working to deliver the winter vaccination programme at pace."