Dubai begins administering Pfizer booster jabs

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) said on Tuesday that it had begun administering Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 booster shots for certain categories.

The booster can be taken six months after the second dose. The health authority additionally outlined the eligibility criteria for those who can receive it.

It said that Emiratis and Dubai residents aged 60 and over are eligible. Also, patients in a long-term care setting, aged 18 and above can avail of it too.

Meanwhile those from 50-59 with chronic diseases are eligible too, after they have consulted with their physician.

DHA begins booster dose for Pfizer-BioNTech #COVID19 vaccine for certain categories only.

(Booster can be taken 6 months after the 2nd dose) pic.twitter.com/2tGiAjKA7w

— هيئة الصحة بدبي (@DHA_Dubai) October 5, 2021

The DHA stressed that the booster shots are available on an appointment basis only, which can be booked via its app or by calling its helpline.

Also on Tuesday, the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) announced the protocols that will be in place for providing booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Sputnik V vaccines, according to news agency WAM.

“Nearly 94.78 percent of the population have taken their first vaccine dose, while 84.3 percent are now fully vaccinated,” said Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, official spokesperson of the UAE Health Sector.

Dr. Al Ghaithi explained that the groups that should take the booster dose are senior citizens; residents above 60 years; people with chronic diseases; individuals at risk of complications from 50 to 59 years old, and people receiving long-term health care aged 18 and above.

Al Ghaithi added that the protocol does not apply to the groups who have received Pfizer-BioNTech or Sputnik V booster doses after being fully vaccinated with Sinopharm.

“We recommend individuals who are eligible for the booster shot be sure to take this dose on time, to protect their health and ensure safety from Covid-19 by boosting their immunity,” she added. “The phased removal of restrictions we are witnessing now requires all of us to share social responsibility to ensure public health and safety.”