Adults aged 60 years and older can now receive the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine 4 months after getting the third shot, thus reducing the interval between the two doses and providing additional protection to this vulnerable population, the
Ministry of Health (Minsa) reported on Wednesday.
"Given that elderly people make up a segment of the population with the highest mortality rates and are at an increased risk of developing severe cases of COVID-19, Minsa urges them to receive the third dose and get the fourth shot after 4 months," the government agency stated.
Those eligible may receive either a Pfizer or Moderna booster dose, as indicated in the protocol for administration of the COVID-19 vaccine third and fourth doses.
The government agency also emphasized that COVID-19 antibodies begin to decline five months after receiving the third dose; therefore, the fourth dose helps increase the antibody levels and prevent severe forms of the disease.
The new protocol prepared by Minsa states that the population aged between 30 and 59 years must receive the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine 5 months after the third dose.
Third dose for children between 5 and 11 years
Similarly, Minsa has authorized the administration of the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for children 5-11 years —at least five months after receiving their second shot.
This vulnerable population will receive the mRNA pediatric vaccine produced by Pfizer.
(END) ICI/LIT/RMB/MVB
Published: 7/27/2022