Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Published: 17:06
New Vaccination Criteria for Covid-19
The Ministry of Health of the Nation has recently announced updated vaccination recommendations for Covid-19 based on different risk groups.
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High Risk
Individuals aged 50 or above, as well as those with immunocompromised conditions and pregnant women, are considered high-risk and should receive the primary vaccination schedule along with booster doses every 6 months.
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Intermediate Risk
People under 50 years of age with non-immunosuppressive comorbidities (such as chronic diseases and obesity), healthcare workers, and strategic personnel fall under the intermediate-risk category. They should receive the primary vaccination scheme, a booster dose at six months, and an annual booster dose thereafter.
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Low Risk
Individuals under 50 years of age without comorbidities are classified as low-risk. They should complete the full primary vaccination schedule and receive an annual booster dose.
“Given the current epidemiological context and the seasonal circulation of respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus, flu, and COVID-19, it is crucial to adhere to the National Vaccination Calendar, including flu vaccination, pneumococcal vaccination, and COVID-19 vaccination as per national recommendations,” emphasized the Ministry of Health.
The Ministry also provided guidelines for flu vaccination:
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Pregnant Women and Children
Pregnant women can receive the flu vaccine at any trimester (within 10 days after delivery if not vaccinated during pregnancy). Children aged 6 to 24 months should receive 2 doses of the influenza vaccine, separated by at least 4 weeks, if they haven’t previously received two doses.
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Risk Groups
Individuals aged 2 to 64 with respiratory and heart diseases, diabetes, immunodeficiencies, obesity, chronic renal failure, genetic syndromes, neuromuscular diseases, and other high-risk conditions should also be vaccinated against the flu.
“The influenza vaccine aims to reduce complications, hospitalizations, deaths, and long-term effects of influenza virus infection in high-risk population groups,” emphasized the Ministry of Health.
Additionally, it is important to note that the pneumococcal vaccine should be administered to infants at 2, 4, and 12 months of age, adults over 65 years of age (with a sequential schedule of two vaccines), and individuals aged 5 to 64 with immune system problems or chronic diseases (such as respiratory, cardiac, hepatic, and diabetes).
Individuals with risk factors can present a medical order or any documentation proving the existence of their condition.
Dose thereafter.
Low Risk
Individuals under 50 years of age with no underlying health conditions are considered low-risk. They should receive the primary vaccination schedule and an annual booster dose.
These updated criteria aim to prioritize those at higher risk for severe illness and complications from Covid-19. The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of vaccination in controlling the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable populations.
The Ministry of Health of the Nation has announced updated vaccination recommendations for Covid-19 based on different risk groups. High-risk individuals, including those aged 50 and above, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women, should receive the primary vaccination schedule along with booster doses every 6 months. Intermediate-risk individuals, such as those under 50 with chronic diseases and healthcare workers, should receive the primary vaccination scheme, a booster dose at six months, and an annual booster dose thereafter. Low-risk individuals under 50 with no underlying health conditions should receive the primary vaccination schedule and an annual booster dose. These updated criteria aim to prioritize those at higher risk for severe illness and complications from Covid-19. The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of vaccination in controlling the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable populations.
How often should low-risk individuals under 50 receive booster doses after completing the primary Covid-19 vaccination schedule
As of now, there is no recommended routine booster dose for low-risk individuals under 50 after completing the primary Covid-19 vaccination schedule. However, it is important to note that recommendations regarding booster doses may change over time based on emerging data and public health guidelines. It is advisable to stay updated with information from local health authorities and consult healthcare professionals for the latest recommendations specific to your region and individual circumstances.
2 comments
“Great to see new recommendations on Covid-19 vaccination, taking into account risk groups and the importance of flu vaccination. Prioritizing those most vulnerable will help save lives and ensure a healthier future for all. Stay safe and get vaccinated!”
“This new recommendation for targeted Covid-19 vaccination based on risk groups and incorporating flu vaccination is a welcome development. By tailoring the vaccination strategy, we can effectively protect the most vulnerable populations from both viruses. It’s a proactive approach towards minimizing the impact of these respiratory illnesses.”