NordenBladet —
The state immunoprophylaxis committee decided that based on the fast spread of the new variant of COVID-19, and the experience from other countries, the interval between the vaccination course and the booster dose should be reduced.
By the new recommendations of the committee, people who were vaccinated with the Janssen vaccine, should have a booster dose two months after completing the vaccination course. It’s extremely important to have a booster dose because the current data shows that one dose of that vaccine is not protective enough compared to mRNA vaccines.
Vaccination courses completed with AstraZeneca, Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, need a booster dose three months after completing the vaccination course.
For booster jabs, the committee still recommends using mRNA vaccines Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, but there are exemptions, like allergic reactions to mRNA vaccines, when Janssen vaccine can be used.
The change is immediate, so it means, since the 21st of December, the booster doses are available with the new interval described above. There are plenty of vaccines in Estonia, so all people who would like that, can get their booster jabs as soon as possible. To book a slot for your booster, go to the digilugu.ee, call the state helpline 1247, or contact your family doctor.
The objectives of COVID-19 vaccination are to protect COVID-19 risk groups, to prevent and reduce COVID-19 related illness and death. Vaccination can reduce the spread of the virus, the burden on the health system and the economy, and ensure the normal functioning of society.
The Estonian Immunoprophylaxis Expert Committee advises the Ministry of Social Affairs about the state immunization and other vaccination-related topics. It includes representatives of allergist-immunologists, family physicians, paediatrics, infectionists, nurses, National Health Board, the Agency of Medicines, Estonian Health Insurance Fund, and the Ministry of Social Affairs.
For more information about vaccination go to www.vaktsineeri.ee.