First Covid-19 booster jabs administered

The first Covid-19 vaccine booster doses were yesterday administered to eligible high-risk individuals who had their second dose of the vaccine more than eight months ago, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

The start of the booster phase of the National Covid-19 Vaccination Program comes following the Ministry of Public Healths announcement earlier this week stating that the first few months of administering booster doses will focus on individuals most at risk of severe Covid-19 infection. This includes people over 65 years of age and those with chronic conditions which increase their risk for severe Covid-19, as well as frontline workers in healthcare and other sectors. Booster doses for the lower age groups and the general public will follow at a later date.

The Ministry explained that, for most people, the protective immunity obtained from their primary vaccine series gradually starts to decline after eight months although the vaccines continue to provide high levels of protection against severe Covid-19 and the booster dose will give them long-term protection against the virus.

The Ministry explained that all eligible individuals for the booster dose are being contacted by Primary Health Care Corporation to set an appointment and are encouraged to get the booster without delay.

The Ministry urges people to receive their booster vaccine within 12 months of their second dose to ensure they continue to be protected against Covid-19.

Former Qatar University president Dr Abdullah al-Kubaisi, who was the first person in Qatar to receive a Covid-19 vaccine on Dec 23, was one of the first people to receive his booster dose yesterday.

Commenting after receiving his Covid-19 booster dose, Dr Abdullah al-Kubaisi said: "I am thankful to be able to receive my booster dose today. Knowing that I will continue to be protected against the virus for many months to come gives me peace of mind and enables me to live my life more fully. I encourage anyone who is eligible for their booster dose to make their appointment as soon as possible."