The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) has approved a second dose of the J&J vaccine. The booster shot will be available for people age 18 and older who received the first dose of the vaccine.
“Sahpra reviewed the safety and efficacy data provided and has subsequently approved the Covid-19 Vaccines Janssen (J&J) second dose/booster dose.”
J&J booster shot can be administered after two months from the first shot
The Department of Health (DoH) released a statement on Thursday regarding the J&J booster shots and when it is available.
“From 24th December 2021, the National Vaccination Programme (NVP) will provide J&J booster vaccinations to anyone who received their last dose at least two months prior (24th October 2021 or before and from then on at least two months interval).
“The recommended interval is after two months but preferably before six months from the primary dose.”
Pfizer booster shot also to become available
Health spokesperson Foster Mohale has confirmed that the Pfizer booster dose will also be available to South Africans at the end of the month.
“From 28th December 2021, the National Vaccination Programme will provide Pfizer booster vaccinations to anyone who received their last dose at least 6 months since the second primary dose.
“Booster doses are the same vaccine in the same dose administered to people who have had a primary vaccination series and are administered to allow the body to boost its immunity to the COVID-19 virus,” says Mohale