JAPAN will start administering Covid-19 booster shots from December 1, joining other countries in taking steps to prevent protection from waning over time.

The Health Ministry approved the move yesterday.

Japan will initially use only the Pfizer vaccine for third doses, meaning those who are fully vaccinated with either AstraZeneca or Moderna – the two other types of shots used in Japan – must “mix and match”, reported Kyodo news agency.

A Health, Labour and Welfare Ministry panel said in principle, individuals will need to wait eight months between their second and third doses, though local governments can shorten the interval to six months if deemed necessary.

Booster shots have proven effective in preventing protection against infection and severe symptoms from waning over time, with the United States offering them since late September.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida vowed to begin administering third doses within the year, with the drive set to start with medical personnel before expanding to the elderly in January.

Individuals aged 18 and above will be eligible for the boosters, and those with pre-existing conditions or working in high-risk professions are encouraged to get them.

Local governments will start mailing out vouchers for the third doses later this month.

Only Pfizer- or Moderna-developed messenger RNA vaccines will be administered, regardless of the vaccine individuals received as their first and second doses. However, the Health Ministry has yet to approve Moderna for third doses.

The AstraZeneca vaccine, which uses a different technology, must undergo further analysis before being used as a booster.

Japan has fully vaccinated more than 75% of its population – a higher rate than most of the other Group of Seven members – despite it getting off to a slow start. More than 78% have received at least one vaccine dose. – Bernama, November 16, 2021.