All individuals who got their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least six months ago are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 booster shot, according to Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH).

Earlier, the duration between the second dose and the third (booster) dose was eight months. However, based on growing clinical evidence that protective immunity for most people starts to decline six months after receiving the first two doses, the period between the second and third dose has been shortened to six months.

All citizens and residents of Qatar who meet the new criteria are currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 booster vaccine, regardless of age.

The Ministry has urged everyone not to delay their appointment to make sure they are well-protected against COVID-19.

Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has announced that all individuals who received the second COVID-19 vaccine dose at least six months ago are now eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccine. #QNAhttps://t.co/XUpPRhGQS3 pic.twitter.com/QQXtkbldzE

— Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) November 14, 2021

One of the most significant factors leading to the success of Qatar’s COVID-19 strategy in curbing the spread of the disease has been the country’s high rate of vaccination within its population. This emphasis on vaccination led to a noticeable decrease in the number of new daily cases, hospital admissions and deaths.

However, the Ministry pointed out that in the past two weeks, a slight increase has been noticed in the new daily cases among people who had been vaccinated before. This is a reminder that the fight against COVID-19 has not ended and  it is still important to be vigilant.

With COVID-19 still prevalent across the globe, MoPH has asked those traveling abroad to remain cautious and get the booster vaccine if they are eligible under the updated criteria.

All those eligible are asked to get the booster shot without delay (no later than 12 months following the date of their second dose) to maintain their Gold Vaccinated Status on Ehteraz.

Booster vaccines are available at all Primary Health Care Corporation health centers and PHCC is directly contacting people who are eligible for the booster shot to set an appointment.

Those who are eligible and have not yet been contacted by PHCC can call 4027 7077 to schedule an appointment.

COVID-19 vaccination appointments can also be made via PHCCs bilingual mobile app, Nar'aakom.

MoPH stressed the need to make an appointment before visiting a health center for the COVID-19 booster vaccine by calling the number above or using the Nar'aakom mobile application.

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Cover Image: for illustrative purposes only

Source: QNA