The Epidemiology Unit has once again urged the general public to obtain the necessary booster vaccine shots administered against COVID-19. Speaking during a media briefing in Colombo today, Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige said Sri Lankans over the age of 20 are eligible to obtain the first booster shot.
Dr. Ginige noted, there is a clear hesitancy in society to obtain the booster shots which could lead to catastrophic consequences, if another COVID-19 wave emerges. He said if another wave emerges, those who have only obtained the primary vaccine doses will be at risk.
Dr. Samitha Ginige said studies across the globe have proven that those who have received the booster shots are less likely to be hospitalised if they contract COVID-19. He said based on studies, experts have determined that those who have obtained booster shots are less likely to have major complications, require ICU admittance, or die of COVID-19.
Dr. Ginige noted based on such studies, the Ministry of Health in November last year recommended all individuals over 20 to obtain the first booster shot. He said however, of the 14.4 million eligible Sri Lankans, only around 7 million have obtained the first booster.
The Chief Epidemiologist said therefore there is a large number of people who have not obtained the recommended booster shots. He said they are clearly at risk, if a new COVID-19 wave emerges in the country.
Dr. Samitha Ginige therefore recommended all those above 20 years to obtain the first vaccine booster jab at the earliest. Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige also encouraged children between the ages of 12 and 19 to obtain both vaccine doses against COVID-19.
Dr. Samitha Ginige said schools have not been functioning continuously recently due to various reasons and therefore some school children have not obtained even the first vaccine dose. He said such children should visit the nearest office of the Medical Officer of Health and obtain the vaccine.
Dr. Ginige added, other school going children must obtain the second dose as recommended. He said it will prevent children from suffering from serious complications adding that it will also allow authorities to conduct academic activities in schools even amidst a new COVID-wave.
