By Gabriela Baron
The Department of Health (DOH) has approved on Wednesday, May 18, the administration of a second booster dose COVID-19 vaccine for the elderly and frontline health workers.
The DOH said mRNA COVID-19 vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer may now be administered to senior citizens and frontline health care workers aged 18 years old and above in light of the local transmission of the BA.2.12.1 Omicron subvariant.
“This is the moment we have all been waiting for. 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,” DOH Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said.
Cabotaje said the second COVID-19 booster shot should be given at least four months after the administration of the first booster dose.
“The second booster for our health workers and senior citizens will enhance protection given by the first booster and the primary series against all variants, including the recent Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1. Against whatever variant there is out there, the second booster supports the 4-Door strategy,” DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire added.
“It fortifies the defense of health workers and highly vulnerable seniors. Everyone eligible can get the second booster jab done at the LGU vaccination sites nearest you. They are safe, effective, and free of charge,” Vergeire continued.
Following the development, DOH Secretary Francisco Duque called on the eligible individuals to get their booster dose, including those who have not yet received their primary doses.
“These vaccines will serve as our protection from existing variants and variants in the future. Together, we can get the job done by getting the jab done,” Duque said.
In April, the Food and Drug Administration granted the emergency use authorization for the administration of second booster shots against COVID-19 to senior citizens, immunocompromised persons, and healthcare workers. – ag
