From 21 December 2021 onward Covid-19 vaccine booster shots will be available three months after initial vaccination, as confirmed by Latvian National Health Service (NVD).
Considering the rapid spread of Omicron variant of the SARSCoV-2 virus in Europe and in order to reduce the risk of it spreading widely in Latvia as well, the National Immunisation Council has decided to shorten the interval between initial and booster vaccination. Now residents are able to receive booster shots after three months after completing their initial vaccination course.
NVD notes that booster shots are one of the most effective solutions to help protect against severe infection with Omicron variant of Covid-19. Booster shots reduce short-term and, perhaps, long-term transmission of the virus. This much is proven by the latest research results from Britain, where the number of new Covid-19 infection cases doubles every couple of days.
NVD urges residents nearing the booster shot term to sign up for one as soon as possible. This is especially recommended risk groups, persons 40 years and older and persons who completed their vaccination course in spring or start of summer.
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Residents who received Covid-19 vaccine Janssen (Johnson&Johnson) will be able to receive a booster shot in two months after initial vaccination. Those who have received vaccination using AstraZeneca, Comirnaty or Moderna vaccine will be able to receive booster shots in three months after the initial vaccination.
Persons who have recovered from Covid-19 or who have received only one vaccine jab will have access to booster shots three months after initial jab or recovery, depending on which was last. Persons suffering from a weakened immune system and who have been vaccinated with three jabs are recommended to start vaccinating six months after receiving the third jab.
Residents who have recovered from Covid-19 and who have been vaccinated with two jabs will have access to a booster shot within six months after vaccinating or recovering. It is important, however, to consult with their general practitioner.
Booster shots are not available to youngsters 12 to 17 years old.
Residents are able to sign up for a booster shot at manavakcina.lv, at 8989 or healthcare institutions, general practitioners included. Vaccination is also available in live queue format at vaccination locations set up in shopping malls, municipal vaccination centres and mobile vaccination points.
NVD stresses that initial vaccination of residents 60 years and older becomes all the more important in the context of the threat posed from Omicron variant.
Covid-19 vaccine booster shots available three months after initial vaccination in Latvia
