On Wednesday, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) indicated that South Africa recorded over 19 000 new COVID cases. As numbers continue to spike, the South African Health Products Authority (SAHPRA) announced that it has approved the Pfizer COVID-19 booster shot for those who are 18 years and older.
Individuals getting the Pfizer vaccine receive two doses, however, through laboratory testing, the pharmaceutical giant has recently determined that a third dose is effective against the latest Omicron variant. The latest dose will be administered at least six months after the second dose has been received, reports IOL.
Additionally, individuals aged 12 years and older who have a compromised immune system can receive the booster at least 28days after their second dose, as per EWN.
SAHPRA approved the use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine on March 16, in terms of section 21 of the Medicines and Related Substance Act (Act 101 of 1965).
“The data provided only dealt with the situation of homologous boosting, where the third dose is of the same vaccine as the initial course (in this case, two doses).
“SAHPRA is aware of the keen interest in the efficacy and safety of heterologous boosting regimens (so-called “mix-and-match” approaches) and invites the submission of supportive data in this regard,” it said.
The announcement comes on the same day as a press conference held by COVID vaccine manufacturers Pfizer and BioNTech, who have determined that the Pfizer/BioNTech should now be considered a “three-dose vaccine”.
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Picture: Cape {town} Etc Gallery