The photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE announced on Tuesday that it will begin offering a third booster shot to recipients of the Chinese state-backed Sinopharm vaccine six months after their initial two-shot vaccination.

The priority to receive an additional dose of Sinopharm is for the senior citizens and people with chronic diseases.

The move is part of the UAE's "proactive strategy to provide maximum protection for society," the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said, with priority given to those aged above 60 or suffering a chronic disease.

"As part of the state’s proactive strategy to provide maximum protection for society, the door has been opened for the public to receive an additional supportive dose of Sinopharm vaccine for people who have received the vaccine previously and who have completed more than six months on the second dose,” said Dr Farida Al Hosani, NCEMA spokeswoman, during a statement broadcast on state television.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has approved a booster Sinopharm dose for senior citizens who have completed the first six months of their vaccination.

The ministry said, “By analysing the data of the National Vaccination Campaign, it was noted that the effectiveness of vaccines contributed to reducing hospital admissions and the need to use ventilators, which supports the acceleration of recovery and limiting the spread of the virus.”

The authorities said that all vaccines undergo strict safety tests, and go through several stages, including clinical trials, before they are approved for use.

The four vaccines were chosen based on accurate scientific basis, and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, which meet all safety and security requirements.

The ministry said, “As part of the UAE’s proactive strategy to provide maximum protection for society, an additional supportive dose of Sinopharm is now available for people who have received the vaccine previously and who have completed more than 6 months since the second dose.”

The relevant national committees are constantly aware of global updates regarding vaccine development, and they are evaluated periodically.

Vaccines are approved for full use or emergency use according to the regulations and laws adopted in the country, after evaluating their safety and effectiveness.