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Peru: People aged 18 and older now eligible for fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose

Photo: ANDINA/Renato Pajuelo

Photo: ANDINA/Renato Pajuelo

10:15 | Lima, Sep. 11.

According to the new National COVID-19 Vaccination Plan, in force as of September 10 this year, the eligibility for the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will be expanded to the age group of 18 years and older, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) reported.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Minsa said that the fourth dose of the vaccine shall be administered to individuals who had the third dose of the vaccine at least five months ago.

The government agency stated that priority will be given to those with comorbidities, immunosuppressed patients, people with disabilities, vulnerable people, as well as health personnel.

Minsa stressed the importance of having a complete vaccine series and continuing to comply with the prevention measures against COVID-19, such as frequent hand washing, ventilation of spaces, social distancing and the correct use of face masks.

Vaccination for ages 6 months and older

On the other hand, the Ministry of Health has updated the National COVID-19 Vaccination Plan, which will include the immunization of the entire population aged six months and above.

This measure is based on Ministerial Resolution 704-2022 published on September 10 in the Official Gazette El Peruano, which amends Ministerial Resolution 488-2021/Minsa.

The aim of the rule, according to the addendum, is to implement COVID-19 vaccination activities free of charge and universally for the entire population aged 6 months and older residing in the country.

After the update, the population to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 35 million totals 35,185,356 people.

According to the age group, 2,404,106 children aged 6 months to 4 years, 4,201,842 children aged 5-11 years, and 5,635,885 teenagers aged 12-19 years will be immunized.

(END) LIT/RMB

Published: 9/11/2022