2nd booster ready for seniors, health workers

Senior citizens and frontline health workers may now avail of their second Covid-19 booster shot, the Department of Health announced yesterday.

The Health department particularly recommended mRNA vaccines, such as Moderna and Pfizer, to strengthen their immunity against the Covid-19 virus, including the latest Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1.

“After careful study and consideration of the best available evidence, we shall now roll out effective immediately the second booster for our frontline health workers and senior citizens. This is part of how we fight back against the virus,” Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said in a statement.

Based on the operational guidelines released by the agency, individuals 18 years old and above belonging to workers in essential health services, and all individuals 60 years old and above can now get their second Covid-19 booster shot.

Health Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire said the second booster for these priority groups will enhance protection given by the first booster and the primary series against all variants.

“Against whatever variant there is out there, the second booster supports the 4-Door strategy. It fortifies the defense of health workers and highly vulnerable seniors. Everyone eligible can get the second booster jab done at the local government vaccination sites nearest you. They are safe, effective, and free of charge,” Vergeire added.

Last month, the Food and Drug Administration approved the emergency use authorization of Covid-19 vaccines. However, only immunocompromised individuals are allowed to avail of the second Covid-19 booster shot.