Second COVID Booster for Health Workers, Seniors is Approved by FDA

Health workers, senior citizens, and those with weak immune systems can soon get their second COVID-19 booster dose to further protect them against the coronavirus, the Department of Health said Wednesday.

The Food and Drug Administration cited waning immunity in specific populations in approving the additional emergency use authorization for COVID-19 vaccines, the DOH said without specifying which vaccine brands were approved for second boosters.

The DOH said another round of booster shots, or a fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose, will be given to frontline workers in health facilities, senior citizens aged 60 and above, and persons with weak immune systems at least four months after their first booster shot.

Those moderately and severely immunocompromised can receive their second booster before the fourth month, subject to their physician's assessment, said DOH.

The National COVID-19 Vaccination Operations Center is drafting the guidelines for the rollout of the second booster.

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