COVID-19: A fourth dose of vaccine soon required? Health authorities in favour

Will you need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 again? As the epidemic is on the rise again in Europe, notably in Portugal, the French National Authority for Health (HAS) has issued a public statement explaining that it recommends a booster vaccination for several groups of people.

Who could receive the fourth dose?

In a statement released on Wednesday, May 25, the HAS said that a booster dose of the vaccine against Covid (Pfizer, Moderna, ...) could be appropriate again this autumn. Some people would be more likely to receive this famous fourth dose, starting with those most at risk: people with serious or chronic illnesses, those aged 65 and over, as well as immunocompromised people and their families.

The HAS said in its public note:

Even if the current data seem to show that the epidemic is stabilising in France, it is highly likely that the circulation of the virus will periodically reintensify,

For the time being, there are two opposing scenarios: the one favoured by the health authorities foresees a ‘lesser’ impact on the circulation of the virus, although ‘still active’,

Thanks to a lasting and sufficient immunity allowing to limit serious forms and deaths;

As for the second theory, ‘a large-scale vaccination campaign should be rapidly organised.’

Europe is experiencing an epidemic rebound

According to information from Le Parisien, published on May 21, Portugal is currently being hit by a sixth wave, following the arrival of the BA.5 variant. This is a first in Europe since the discovery of the new variant. The rate of hospitalisation has risen sharply: the number of cases recorded has risen from 650 to 2,500 in a few days.

The wearing of masks is once again strongly recommended ‘in closed and overcrowded environments’ in certain European countries, including France, without however returning to a firm obligation. Although 90% of people aged 65 and over are vaccinated in Portugal, Europe is dreading the increased mixing of people that comes with summer holidays.

This article has been translated from Oh!MyMag FR.

Read more:

⋙ Monkeypox: WHO recommends Covid-19 measures to contain the virus

⋙ North Korea suggests using traditional medicine to fight COVID-19

⋙ Gun deaths have increased during COVID-19, here's why