The Ministry of Health and Wellness has announced that effective Monday, December 13, healthcare workers and adults 60 years and older will be given a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccines.
In a release, the Ministry noted that the move comes as it has completed its evaluation and benefit analysis of administering an additional dose of the authorised COVID-19 vaccines to key members of the population,
The Ministry said it recommends that a booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine be offered six months or more after the completion of the initial doses that may have consisted of either mRNA (Pfizer) or viral vector vaccine (AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson).
Additionally, a booster dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine may be offered two months or more after completion of the initial dose, to individuals whose primary series consisted of one dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, the Ministry said.
According to Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, “Following Cabinet meeting today, the decision is for boosters to be given to key populations who are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, increased risk of waning and/or lower protection and who could pose increased risk of transmission to vulnerable populations.”
He added that “These key populations are essential for maintaining the health system capacity. Eligible persons are to visit the nearest vaccination site with their vaccination card and Government-issued ID.”
Chief Medical Officer, Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie added that “For other members of the population not included in the aforementioned recommendations for a booster dose, the Ministry will continue to closely monitor the evidence and will make additional recommendations if there is evidence of the need for, and benefit of, a booster dose and vaccine doses are available.”
In the meantime, the Ministry noted that in light of the Omicron variant being seen as highly transmissible and in keeping with the ministry’s priority, the public is also urged to complete their COVID-19 vaccination series.
“It is not too late to get the second dose and persons must ensure they receive this dose to get optimum protection. Elderly persons, in particular are at risk for severe illness and death from COVID-19 if they are not vaccinated,” the CMO further cautioned.
