Israel: "Booster Shot's Preventive Effect is Four Times That of the Second Dose"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The COVID-19 vaccine booster shot (third dose) has been shown to significantly reduce infection rates and severe deterioration rates among those aged 60 and over.

On the 22nd (local time), the Israeli Ministry of Health announced these research findings, according to major foreign media reports.

According to the research results, the effectiveness 10 days after receiving the booster shot was about four times higher than after completing the second dose. The effectiveness in preventing severe deterioration or hospitalization was found to be 5 to 6 times higher.

However, the Israeli Ministry of Health did not disclose the detailed overall research data.

Israel, which was the first country in the world to start administering booster shots last month, confirmed that immunity wanes after a certain period following vaccination. It was especially found that the elderly or those with underlying conditions had a higher rate of severe deterioration after being infected with COVID-19.

Accordingly, Israel expanded the booster shot eligibility from those aged 60 and over to those aged 40 and over. Pregnant women, teachers, and medical personnel were also included.

As a leading country in vaccination, Israel is rapidly increasing its booster shot vaccination rate. Out of a total population of 9.3 million, 1.5 million people have already completed the booster shot.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.