AUDITORS have praised the progress of Scotlands Covid-19 vaccination programme, but uptake has been lower among certain groups.
A report from Audit Scotland has revealed that as of September 17 more than 90 per cent of over 18’s have rolled up their sleeves to receive at least one of two covid jags.
However, it has also been revealed that uptake in the vaccine is low for younger age groups, ethnic minorities, those who live in deprived areas.
Auditor general, Stephen Boyle said that now is the time to take that information and use it to help encourage these groups to get the jag.
He said: “There is now an opportunity for the Scottish Government to use what it’s learned to manage the challenges of the next part of the vaccine programme, and the wider delivery of NHS services.”
It comes as Scotland’s weekly coronavirus deaths reach their highest level since February.
READ MORE: Weekly coronavirus deaths reach highest level since February
As of September 26, 10,991 deaths have been registered in Scotland where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate, according to statistics published today by National Records of Scotland (NRS).
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf welcomed the audit and said it recognised the ‘excellent progress’ of the vaccine programme in Scotland.
He said: “The latest Audit Scotland report recognises the excellent progress, strong partnership work and planning which has helped us deliver a successful programme.
““We have taken into account what we have learned so far in drawing up our plans for the next stages of Scotland’s largest ever vaccination programme and look forward to its continued success.”
However, the report came under some scrutiny from the Scottish Conservatives who argued that whilst the vaccination scheme has been a success, the SNP are becoming complacent in the face of certain groups failing to get the vaccine.
Scottish Conservative health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: “The vaccination scheme has been an incredible success across Scotland and the United Kingdom. However, there can be no room for complacency from the SNP.
READ MORE: Conservatives criticised for 'hysterical reaction' to lord advocate's drugs intervention
“It is clear that many aspects of their vaccination strategy are not working right now.
“They are failing to reach young people and many people in our BAME and deprived communities.
“SNP ministers must urgently rethink their approach to ensure uptake is as high as possible."
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