People over 50 eligible for additional Pfizer booster shot
The Department of Health has confirmed that people over the age of 50 are now eligible for an additional Pfizer Covid-19 booster shot.
Health spokesperson Foster Mohale said those who received their Pfizer booster vaccine four months ago will be allowed an extra vaccine from Monday.
"This is part of the government's efforts to increase vaccine uptake to achieve population immunity while protecting the vulnerable groups, especially those living with comorbidities. There is only safety data that supports the decision to administer the additional vaccine and there is no reason to believe that Johnson & Johnson will not be safe."
University of Stellenbosch epidemiologist Dr. Jo Barnes said the extra vaccine boost is likely to keep the cohort out of hospital should they be infected with Covid-19.
"Immunity against Covid-19 infection fades over time and needs a helping hand by means of booster shots to maintain protection. There are very few persons who are not able to have a booster. Those who showed serious side effects to the original vaccination should consult a doctor, but the rest of this age group is warmly encouraged to get their booster shots as soon as possible, particularly with winter setting in when the transmission is enhanced."
This week saw the country’s Covid-19 positivity rate dip below 10%.
ALSO READ:
