Well being Ministry notes urgency to extend booster protection

The current noticeable improve in COVID-19 circumstances in Fiji signifies an urgency to extend efforts to extend booster dose protection, says Ministry of Well being and Medical Providers everlasting secretary Dr James Fong.

He made the remark in his COVID-19 replace announcement final night time as he introduced the 41 new circumstances recorded between June 3 and 6.

At current, he mentioned Fiji had COVID-19 main collection protection of 95 per cent and booster dose protection of 30 per cent for people 18 years and over.

“It’s properly documented that immunity from COVID-19 vaccination wanes over time. The effectiveness of safety towards COVID-19 after a main collection of AstraZeneca vaccination is decrease than with different COVID-19 vaccine merchandise, particularly towards the Omicron variant of concern,” Dr Fong mentioned.

He mentioned the return of many of the medical immunisation employees had additionally helped to make sure assist for escalating the vaccine booster protection program.

“Primarily based on this and worldwide proof, the ministry recommends the booster dose interval for eligible individuals over 18 years be diminished to a few months after the second dose in recognition of: the chance of illness surge based mostly on waning two doses of COVID-19 vaccine safety; gradual booster uptake; elevated worldwide journey with the relief of border measures; and ongoing outbreaks in varied elements of the world.

“Therefore, we urge the general public to get booster vaccine doses with an inventory of vaccination websites offered each day by the MHMS.  Presently, each Pfizer and Moderna are really helpful for booster doses.”