People aged 65 and over called for a second Covid 19 booster shot

People aged 65 and over are now eligible for their second Covid-19 booster shot.

In accordance with guidance from the National Immunization Advisory Committee (NIAC), the HSE is inviting people aged 65 and over to take advantage of a second Covid-19 booster vaccine.

Immunocompromised people aged 12 and over can also get their second booster when it’s due for them.

The HSE encouraged everyone in these two groups who have already received their first booster dose to get their second booster dose if they are eligible. It said the second booster shot would give people the “best protection against serious illness from Covid-19.”

Eligible people can now book appointments online at HSE vaccination centers across the country. Appointments are from Friday 22.

In the coming weeks, participating general practitioners and pharmacies will also start with the second booster vaccination.

The HSE’s Chief Clinical Officer urged people in those two groups to take advantage of the vaccine.

dr Colm Henry said: “We are now offering a second booster dose to those aged 65 and over and those with compromised immune systems and I urge everyone in those groups to get that second booster dose.”

“People recommended for this second booster shot are those most at risk of serious illness from Covid-19. It is important that you get your second booster shot to maintain your protection against becoming seriously ill or requiring hospital treatment if you do catch the virus.”

If you are 65 years of age or older, the HSE recommends that you should receive your second refresher at least four months after your first refresher.

Individuals aged 30 and over will be offered a single booster dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine at HSE vaccination centers and in the coming weeks from GPs and pharmacies.

People under the age of 29 are offered a single dose of Pfizer’s vaccines, which are mRNA vaccines. NIAC has recommended that people get an mRNA vaccine for this second booster, and it’s safe to get it if you’ve previously received another vaccine.