The Department of Health said Monday it approved recommendations from an expert panel for COVID-19 booster shots and additional dose for priority groups.
The Health Technology Assessment Council listed the recommended additional shot for five vaccine brands in a document signed by Health Sec. Francisco Duque III.
"We emphasize that these recommendations are being offered in consideration of sufficient vaccine supply and acceptable coverage for primary vaccination," the HTAC said.
"Furthermore, we emphasize that these recommendations are interim and HTAC is actively on the watc for evidence as it is rapidly evolving. We shall update its recommendation when new information is available, if necessary," the HTAC added.
The World Health Organization's representative to the Philippines,Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe, said a third dose is another shot of the vaccine for those who are immunocompromised since they cannot sustain the immunity developed from the two doses.
A booster is another jab offered to the public including those who do not have weakened immune systems.
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The Philippines has a goal of 1.5 million daily vaccinations and 50 million fully vaccinated Filipinos by the end of the year for a "happy Christmas," vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said. To achieve herd immunity, the country has to vaccinate at least 70 million Filipinos, or 70% of its population.
To date, at least 25 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated, with 30 more million waiting on their second dose.
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