More in Sweden will be offered a covid-19 boost
Those who will be eligible for a third vaccination shot include nursing homes, those with home care and anyone over the age of 80, if their last dose was over six months ago, according to the agency’s latest guidelines.
This is in addition to those with weak immune systems due to illness or treatment, who have already started getting booster shots.
In its statement, the agency said that the decision to offer more third doses was due to both Swedish and international data indicating that the protective effect of vaccines decreases over time, as well as an increase in the number of reported breakthrough infections (where people catch Covid -19 even though they are double vaccinated) among nursing homes.
Booster shot administration will be organized at the regional level, with the Public Health Agency recommending that the doses be coordinated with influenza vaccines.
The Swedish Public Health Agency has not ruled out offering booster shots to more groups and says that they monitor the effect of the vaccine in other groups and may decide to extend the booster shot if necessary.
Johan Carlson, Director General of the Swedish Public Health Agency, said the following: “Our experience so far has taught us that vaccination against Covid-19 is very effective against serious illness and death. Looking at the current development, it is reasonable to start giving extra protection to the oldest and most vulnerable who were first vaccinated and have a weaker immune system. ”