China Allows COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots Starting with High-Risk Groups

Booster Shots Available for High-Risk Occupations Such as Customs and Border Inspection, Aviation, and Medical Institutions
Individuals with Low Immunity and Those Aged 60 and Over Also Eligible

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] China has decided to allow additional 'booster shots' for high-risk groups to enhance the virus resistance of people who have completed two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

According to Chinese media on the 27th, the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism of the State Council announced at a press conference that workers in high-risk occupations such as customs and border inspection personnel, aviation industry workers, quarantine facility staff, and designated medical institution employees can receive an additional vaccination six months after completing the two-dose vaccination.

Additionally, people with relatively low immunity and those aged 60 and above were included as booster shot recipients, considering their relatively higher risk of severe illness and death after infection.

The authorities also stated that people who need to travel to overseas regions with infection risks for work, study, or exchange purposes can receive the third dose.

The Chinese government based this decision on research results showing that the immune enhancement effect after three doses of domestically produced vaccines is better than after two doses.

However, Chinese media reported that experts believe additional research and a comprehensive assessment of the epidemic situation are necessary to decide on administering booster shots to the entire population.

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