Covid-19 vaccine could become like yearly flu shot, says health expert

With the delta variant continuing to pose a significant threat to the world, regular Covid-19 vaccinations may become the new normal, said a health expert.

Speaking on a radio program on Thursday, government adviser David Hui Shu-cheong said many countries around the world will be administering a third Covid jab for their citizens soon, in view of the spread of the Delta variant.

He said it is possible that people may need regular booster shots each year to make sure we continue to be protected.

However, he said if newer versions of the Covid vaccine targeting the Delta variant are developed, it may further extend the time for another booster jab.

Meanwhile, the health expert said given that the vaccination rate among the elderly is still low, social distancing measures may not loosen even if the SAR administers a third jab for residents.

Experts from two Department of Health scientific committees on Wednesday night recommended that people with weak immunity and others facing high risks from the coronavirus should get a third Covid-19 shot.

People who received the Beijing-made Sinovac vaccine can switch to German-made BioNTech shots for the booster, with studies showing the BioNTech jabs can produce a higher antibody level.

Patients with weak immune systems, including cancer patients, HIV/Aids patients and those who have undergone organ transplants, can receive the third jab at least four weeks after the second dose, according to the experts.

As for citizens aged above 60 and high-risk groups including medical workers, staff at the airport and quarantine hotels and cross-border truck drivers, they can also receive a booster shot six months after their second dose.