Government Increases Pfizer vaccine for people over 50

With effect from today, the Department of Health has updated the vaccination schedule for people aged 50 and up, making them eligible for an additional booster dose of Pfizer vaccine.

According to a statement issued by the Department on Sunday, this additional booster is available to all people of this age group who have waited at least 120 days or four months since their last Pfizer or J&J COVID-19 vaccination.

“This is part of efforts by the government to increase vaccine uptake to achieve population immunity while protecting the most vulnerable groups, especially those living with co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension,” the department said.

The Pfizer vaccine, according to the department, has been shown to be safe and effective in boosting immunity in older people who are still at high risk of severe disease and death from COVID-19.

“Out of a total adult population of almost 20 million people who have vaccinated so far, more than 7 million of them are aged 50 years and older.

“We applaud older people for coming forward in large numbers and we encourage all individuals who have not had their second dose or booster dose to go to their nearest vaccination site,” the department said.

The department, in partnership with the health organization Right-to-Care, has released the app FindMyJab.co.za, which allows anyone to locate the nearest vaccination station using any device, such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet.