Nicola Sturgeon has said the vaccination campaign had been "a source of brightness during a really difficult month" as she used her Christmas message to urge Scots to get the jag.
In the First Minister's address on Christmas Eve she thanks all those who were working over the festive period, and pays special tribute to the thousands of people who had been involved in the race to vaccinate people against the rise of the omicron coronavirus variant.
"The vaccination programme has been a source of brightness during a really difficult month," she said.
"Getting vaccinated is the most important way, although certainly not the only way, in which we can all protect each other, as we get through this next phase of the pandemic.
"Vaccination is above all else a demonstration of compassion for, and solidarity with, each other.
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"By continuing to show compassion and solidarity, I hope we can all enjoy the best and the safest festive period possible."
Wishing Scots a merry Christmas, Ms Sturgeon said for many December 25 would not be a holiday at all.
"That of course includes our armed forces, our emergency services, and so many other vital services," said the First Minister.
"And of course for many people working in care homes, and in our National Health Service, Christmas will be another working day, at the end of another incredibly hard year.
"So thank you.
"I also want to say a special thank you to the thousands of people, who have been involved in the remarkable vaccination effort in recent weeks.
"I know that many of you are working right up until Christmas Eve, and will start up again straight after Boxing Day for the run up to new year.
"I know that, even three or four weeks ago, all of us were looking forward to a fairly normal Christmas.
"I am so sorry that this year's won't be quite like that.
"But for many of us, because of vaccination, it will still be more much normal than last year."
