Pfizer booster jab to be administered to those above 40

Starting today, Friday 07 January 2022, people aged over 40 and who are due for their COVID-19 booster dose will get the Pfizer vaccine as the booster dose.

This announcement was made on Thursday by the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal, during a press conference, held at the seat of his Ministry, in Port-Louis. 

Dr Kowlessur, member of the vaccination committee and Officer-in-charge of the planification unit of the national vaccination campaign, and Dr Nuckcheddy, member of the vaccination committee, and Officer-in-charge of infection, prevention and control, were also present.

According to the Minister, Pfizer vaccines were administered to those aged less than 18, that is, adolescents aged between 12 and 17, and people aged more than 70 years. 

The country received more than 400,000 doses of Pfizer vaccines on 31 December 2021 and thus it will be extended to more people, he said.

Dr Jagutpal remarked that more than 15% of the population has received the booster dose.  International studies have demonstrated that vaccines offer a protection over a certain period of time and that is why the booster dose is important, he emphasised.

He also recalled that as from 15 January 2022 new regulations will come into force redefining the status of ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19 and accordingly citizens will be given access to certain premises only if they are fully vaccinated.

As regards the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the Minister said that international studies have demonstrated the need to be inoculated with two doses of the vaccine to be considered as fully vaccinated. 

Therefore, the vaccination committee is working on this aspect and changes will be brought in the coming weeks to that effect, he indicated.

Original article at GIS Mauritius