By: Natasha Archary
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has given the green light for booster vaccines to be administered.
Speaking to the media this morning Health Minister Joseph Phaahla said the booster doses will be give to those over the age of 18-years.
South Africans who received their second Pfizer vaccine will be eligible for their third booster jab at least 6 months later.
A second dose of the Pfizer vaccine has also been given the green light for children 12-years and older at least 42 days after the first shot.
There has been no confirmation yet regarding booster shots for those who have taken the J&J vaccine. So far, only healthcare workers will be given J&J booster shots as per the Sisonke study.
This will take place from 17 December onwards.
According to the evaluation by SAHPRA, mixing vaccines is recognised as effective in the vaccine rollout plans.
With the inclusion of the Omicron variant, robust research and supportive data is still being done to determine vaccine efficacy.
The new variant’s rapid rate of transmission has caused concern.
While there is supporting evidence to suggest 2 doses may still offer protection against the Omicron variant, lab studies show protection is improved with a third dose.
Vaccinated individuals are still at risk of contracting Covid-19 but the chances of being hospitalised are greatly reduced compared to the unvaccinated.



