Nearly 60,000 paper Covid vaccine passports have been reissued by the Scottish Government.
From October 1, the majority of people will need to show a vaccine certificate to attend large scale events or nightclubs.
Thousands of people have already downloaded theirs onto their phone. Some have opted to get paper copies.
But there was confusion for many in Tayside and Fife when new paper copies dropped through letterboxes recently.
And the Scottish Government confirmed they’ve had to reissue 57,000 certificates, citing a “routine update to the 2D barcode.”
But refused to answer whether this had been due to an error, saying: “We have reissued some paper vaccination certificates due to a routine update to the 2D barcodes (QR codes).
‘Destroy old letter’
“We ask that people destroy their old letter.
“PDF downloads of vaccination status are not affected and remain valid.
“People can download a PDF version of their vaccination status at NHS Inform.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused for those affected.”
How many people have already got theirs?
According to latest figures, only around 12% of the population have already got theirs. The Scottish Government confirms:
- A total of 472,866 certificates have been downloaded so far.
- 141,789 paper certificates have been posted out so far.
- The total of downloads and paper certificates only represents approximately 12% of Scotland’s population.
- The Scottish Government have said an NHS Scotland COVID Status App will provide access to vaccination status moving forward.
It is expected the app will be launched at the end of September.
Why do I need a vaccine passport?
People attending large-scale events and nightclubs in Scotland will have to show proof of vaccination from October 1.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the details to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday.
Vaccine passports will be needed from October 1.
Where do I get a paper copy if I can’t download it?
Currently, you can get a printed copy of proof you are fully vaccinated through the Covid-19 status helpline on 0808 196 8565, set up to help those without access to a smartphone or computer.
The helpline is open every day from 10am to 6pm and took 17,875 calls last week alone.
Last week the average call to the hotline was nine minutes 42 seconds. The helpline is a freephone number, so there is no charge to use it.
Who WONT need to show their status?
Ms Sturgeon says the following people will be exempt from having to show proof of vaccination:
- Everyone under 18.
- Those taking part in vaccine trials
- People who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
- Those working at or performing in a venue.