Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE on Tuesday approved the emergency use of the booster shots of Pfizer-BioNTech and Sputnik vaccines.

This was revealed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) during the weekly briefing on coronavirus situation in the UAE.

“The decision comes based on updated studies and recommendations to give the booster shots to individuals vaccinated with the two basic doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Sputnik vaccines 6 months after their second dose,” said an official during the briefing.

The official said that the groups that should take the booster dose are senior citizens; residents above 60 years; people with chronic diseases; individuals at risk of complications from 50 to 59 years old, and people receiving long-term health care aged 18 years and above.

Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

However, this protocol does not apply to the groups who have received Pfizer-BioNTech or Sputnik booster doses after being fully vaccinated with Sinopharm.

Authorities emphasised that the booster is given as an additional dose that’s given after receiving the first two vaccine doses. This booster should help improve immunity after vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 infections decreases over time.

Official said that it is recommend that individuals who are eligible for the booster shot be sure to take this dose on time, to protect their health and ensure safety from COVID-19 by boosting their immunity.

The UAE health sector plays a vital role in strengthening the national response to COVID19 and stemming its consequences.

The sector has contributed, along with other sectors, to provide all the capabilities and resources necessary to address challenges and achieve recovery.

The health sector has invested in its R&D potential and capabilities to realise the goals we’ve have achieved today, most notably safe vaccines in addition to the efficient treatment protocol in our hospitals.