The policy-making body of the World Health Organization has recommended that a third dose of the Sinovac and Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines should be offered to persons aged 60 and above and those whose immune systems are diminished.
The WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (WHO SAGE) said all evidence reviewed showed a need for a third dose of the same vaccine for those who have completed the two doses of inactivated vaccines produced by Chinese manufacturers Sinovac and Sinopharm.
SAGE chairperson Alejandro Cravioto, however, said a different brand can be considered as the third dose if there is enough supply.
“This should be started to be offered to people aged 60 and above since they are the ones that have shown the biggest problem in response,” he said in a briefing on Monday.
SAGE published highlights from its meeting conducted from Oct. 4 to 7, saying nations should initially aim to fully vaccinate senior citizens before administering the third dose by starting in the oldest age groups. (CNN)