The
Ministry of Health (Minsa) reiterated that 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.
In this regard,
Minsa's Immunizations Director Maria Elena Martinez explained that this reduction responds to the need to protect such vulnerable group; given that, in recent weeks since the fourth wave began, hospital beds have been mostly occupied by the elderly.
"For this reason, based on a review by the Institute (INS) and the committee of experts, we have considered it appropriate to protect and care for the elderly," she said on Sunday.
In this regard, Martinez reported that the fourth dose has been given to about 27,000 senior citizens nationwide in the four days since the new provision took effect.
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
Published: 7/31/2022