get a booster vaccination in Switzerland
On November 26, 2021, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) recommended a booster vaccination for everyone aged 16 and over. However, the cantons of Switzerland are not yet ready to offer boosters to all 16- to 64-year-olds, and the start dates are different.
In Switzerland, boosters are administered six months after the second vaccination at the earliest. However, in some countries the time between shots is shorter. It’s five months in France.
Many cantons continue to rely on the third vaccination for over 64-year-olds. Booster shots are aimed at maintaining high levels of immunity, and immunity wears off faster in those over 64.
Recent studies suggest that vaccination protection against serious illnesses remains high after six months, but decreases more markedly with less severe symptoms, increasing the potential for the virus to spread.
The federal government is leaving the cantons to organize its own booster programs. This means that they are offered at different times depending on the canton, reported RTS.
Vaud
Vaud will offer vaccines to everyone aged 16 and over until December 13, 2021, and will open to people over 50 by December 6, 2021, with priority over 64. Register here.
Geneva
In Geneva, 16- to 64-year-olds can book appointments for boosters from mid-December. Register here.
Freiburg
On Tuesday, the canton of Friborg opened the booking of boosters for everyone over the age of 16, but retains the priority for those over 64 years of age Here.
Valais
As soon as a third vaccination can be offered to everyone over 64 years of age, a booster vaccination will be offered to everyone over 16 years of age in the canton of Valais. Register here.
Neuchâtel
In Neuchâtel, people aged 16 to 64 can book appointments. Find more information here.
Bern
From December 6, 2021 it will be possible for everyone aged 16 and over to book an appointment for a booster vaccination. You can find more information here.
Zurich
People in Zurich between the ages of 16 and 64 who are registered on the VacMe platform will be contacted by email and SMS and invited to receive boosters as soon as they have reached the six-month mark. Walk-ins are not possible, but appointments with doctors can be booked. Find more information here.
In Switzerland, booster shots are free for all residents, regardless of the excess. And there is no 10% share that has to be paid, as is the case with most medical expenses in Switzerland.
New Covid certificates with a term of 12 months will be issued after third shots, RTS reported,
More on this:
RTS article (in French) – Now take a 5-minute French test
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