Minister of Health, Khairy Jamaluddin has announced that Pfizer and AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine recipients, specifically aged 18 and above, are eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot three months after receiving their second dose.
However, individuals with comorbidities and chronic illnesses will first be a priority. Booster shot roll-out for these vaccines will commence in January or February 2022, he further explained.
Compared to Sinovac, Pfizer and AstraZeneca shots have been proven more successful in heterologous vaccinations. That being said, Sinovac booster shots will still be administered to those who are required to take them as per their doctor's advice or any allergy concerns.
In his press conference, KJ also mentioned that the government has lifted the travel ban on the following countries:
• South Africa
• Botswana
• Eswatini
• Lesotho
• Malawi
• Mozambique
• Namibia
•Zimbabwe
This is due to the fact that the Omicron variant has already spread to many other countries, and the above-mentioned countries will now be referred to as "high-risk" countries instead.
For those intending to go for Umrah, they are advised to acquire their booster shot prior to traveling and to undergo self-quarantine and self-test once they return.
Lastly, KJ advises Malaysians to be extra cautious during New Year celebrations and to pick up the self-test kit before going out as "These are important private health measures to control the spread of the virus."
