Senior citizens (Priority Group A2) and frontline health workers (Priority Group A1) may now avail of a second booster shot, particularly mRNA vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer, to strengthen immunity against the COVID-19 virus, including the latest Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1.
Following the earlier grant of an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and a positive recommendation by the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC), DOH through the National COVID-19 Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) released DM No. 2022-0206 or the Interim Operational Guidelines on the Administration of 2nd COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses to Senior Citizens and Frontline Healthcare Workers ages 18 Years Old and Above.
“This is the moment we have all been waiting for. After careful study and consideration of the best available evidence, we shall now roll out effective immediately the second booster for our frontline health workers and senior citizens. This is part of how we fight back against the virus,” said DOH Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje, NVOC Chair.
The DOH guidelines provide for the administration of second booster doses for individuals eighteen (18) years old and above belonging to Priority Group A1: Workers in Essential Health Services, and all individuals sixty (60) years old and above (Priority Group A2: Senior Citizens). The COVID-19 vaccines to be used are Pfizer and Moderna, to be given at least four (4) months after the administration of the first booster dose.
“The second booster for our health workers and senior citizens will enhance protection given by the first booster and the primary series against all variants, including the recent Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1. Against whatever variant there is out there, the second booster supports the 4-Door strategy. It fortifies the defense of health workers and highly vulnerable seniors. Everyone eligible can get the second booster jab done at the LGU vaccination sites nearest you. They are safe, effective, and free of charge,” said DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire.
The administration of second booster doses to eligible individuals shall be implemented simultaneously nationwide, depending on the readiness of the Regional and Local Vaccination Operation Centers (RVOC/LVOCs), implementing units, and vaccination sites. The only documents needed are the vaccination card showing the date of the first booster dose, and any valid government issued ID.
“To further advance our march to the New Normal, we call on every eligible Juan and Juana to get their booster doses and those who have not yet received their primary doses. These vaccines will serve as our protection from existing variants and variants in the future. Together, we can get the job done by getting the jab done!” said Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III.
