BY DIRAMAKINI
THE Ministry of Health informs members of the public that Botswana now offers booster doses for children aged between 12 and 17 years, who have completed their primary vaccination series.
These children become eligible for booster doses, at least 6 months after completing their primary vaccination series.
Photo by The Clinical Advisor.
In addition, the ministry now offers 2nd (second) booster doses for all adults above the age of 50, who have taken their first booster dose.
People aged between 12 and 49 years, who have been determined to be immuno-compromised (e.g. cancer patients and those on chemotherapy), are also eligible for the 2nd booster dose.
The Pfizer vaccine will be used for second boosters, regardless of whatever vaccine one may have taken for their primary vaccination series or as a 1st booster. Second booster shots will be offered at least 4 months after the 1st booster shot.
The ministry further informs members of the public that in an effort to continue expanding COVID-19 vaccination offerings to the public as a primary effort to reduce the risk of severe and critical disease, authority has been granted by the Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BoMRA), to offer primary vaccination and 1st booster shots to children aged 5 to 11 years.
The Pfizer vaccine will be offered to children in this age group.
Preparations are at an advanced stage, for a smooth vaccination rollout programme in this age group.
The public will be informed when vaccination for the 5 to 11 year age group commences.
The ministry therefore, encourages all those eligible for vaccination and for booster shots as outlined above, to visit their nearest vaccination site for vaccination.
More information can be obtained from the Public Relations Office, DHMTs and ministry facilities across the country.
Thank you.
Yours faithfully
Dr Christopher Nyanga
For Permanent Secretary
