Information taken from Medinz

Published by Auckland, Counties Manukau and Waitematā DHBs on 16/11/2021 10:50:30 AM.

The Government has announced that people will be able to access a Pfizer COVID-19 booster dose from Monday 29 November.

Background

The COVID Vaccination Technical Advisory Group advises that current evidence shows that immunity produced by the Pfizer vaccine wanes over time, particularly from 6 months after a primary vaccination course. A booster dose can restore the protection provided by the original primary vaccination course and reduce the COVID-19 burden on hospitals and healthcare workers.

The booster is different to the third primary dose recommended for severely immunocompromised consumers. People eligible for a third primary dose can access a booster dose 6 months after receiving their third primary dose.

Eligibility

A booster vaccine dose will be available for anyone who completed their vaccination course at least 6 months prior to their planned booster dose either in New Zealand or overseas. Healthcare and border workers are a priority group for booster vaccine doses as many completed their primary vaccination course at least 6 months ago. Older people and kaumatua should also be prioritised so please consider this when planning patient recalls.

Currently, booster doses will not be mandatory for workers who are required to be vaccinated, or to get a vaccine certificate used to access events, gyms, churches, hairdressers, and other services and premises.

Vaccine

The Pfizer vaccine is the preferred vaccine being used in New Zealand for booster doses, regardless of what vaccine was used for earlier doses.

Supporting resources

The Ministry is working at pace to ensure guidance collateral, and supporting technologies and processes, are updated to include booster doses.

Communications will be clear that two doses provide good protection, including after 6 months, and booster doses are not urgent. 

Funding

Further information regarding available funding for booster shots, and claiming processes, will be published via Medinz as it becomes available. 

View this message on Medinz.