BORDERS residents aged 50-59 years old will find out the date of their first coronavirus jag in “the next couple of days”, says the region’s health board.

NHS Borders says that more than 55,000 people in the region have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Appointments for those aged 50-59 have now been scheduled, says the health board, with those in that age bracket set to receive an appointment letter in the coming days.

Nicky Berry, NHS Borders’ executive lead for the COVID-19 vaccine programme, said: “I am delighted with the progress our teams have made in getting vaccinations to as many people as quickly as possible.

“I am also encouraged by the excellent uptake rate of vaccination in the Borders. I would like to extend my continued thanks to our staff and partners for their hard work and also to the public for their fantastic response in coming forward to be vaccinated.

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“To those who are still waiting their turn, thank you for your patience.

“I fully understand how eager you are to get your jab, please be assured that we will vaccinate you as soon as we can in line with the national rollout plan.”

The vaccine rollout is currently in its third wave in the Borders, with those aged 60-64 years old, unpaid carers and those with underlying health conditions currently being vaccinated.

NHS Borders also gave an update on its progress in administering second doses of the vaccine.

A spokesperson for the health board said: “Our teams are now administering second doses to those who were eligible in Wave 1.

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“So far over 11,000 people have received their second dose.

“If you are waiting to receive your second appointment please be assured that you will be contacted by the team who gave you your first jab, please do not call your GP Practice unless advised to do so.

“It is really important that you come forward to get your second dose when it is your turn to ensure that you have lasting protection against COVID-19.”