PETALING JAYA: As the virus evolves, steps needed to keep people safe must too, including adjusting the interval of booster shots, experts say.

       Many countries have shortened the interval of Covid-19 booster shots to three months, including Malaysia, in the fight to contain new coronavirus variants, especially Omicron.

       Virologist Dr Kumitaa Theva Das said global data suggests that two doses of vaccine, whether it is from Pfizer, AstraZeneca or Sinovac, offer reduced protection against Omicron, adding that immunity too wanes faster against Omicron compared with the Delta strain.

       “Based on an interim statement published by WHO (the World Health Organisation) recently, all studies on Pfizer and AstraZeneca show a strong immune response and increase in antibody levels following booster shots, and that both homologous and heterologous (mix and match) regimens are immunologically effective.

       “According to the same statement, all of the boosters have shown to be equally safe as the two doses administered so far.

       “AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Sinovac are different types of vaccines, but all boosters increase antibodies and provide overall immune protection,” she added.

       After being vaccinated, some side effects are normal and expected, said Kumitaa, adding that it is a sign that the body is building protection, regardless of the vaccine type.

       Similar to the two vaccine doses, recipients will be required to stay in an observation bay for 15 to 30 minutes to ensure that there are no severe side effects, she said.

       “Being in the observation bay means qualified help is on hand in the unlikely event that you do experience any (side effects).

       “Some people may develop fever, muscle pain and swelling, redness or pain at the injection site for one to two days. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.

       “It is also important to continue protecting yourself after your booster shot by washing your hands often, physical distancing, wearing a well-fitted mask, and being in a well-ventilated place.

       “If your symptoms are severe or last longer than a week, do reach out to medical frontliners,” she said.

       Universiti Putra Malaysia medical epidemiologist Assoc Prof Dr Malina Osman said the shortened interval will also help speed up the process, allowing more to get their booster shot.

       “Based on published studies, the booster shot can protect the public from new variants.

       “There should not be any problem related to safety to take the booster shot earlier than the recommended period of 180 days for Pfizer and AstraZeneca.

       “There are studies done in the lab as well as clinical trials indicating the waning of antibodies after a few months of completing two doses of the vaccines.

       “The main issue WHO is concerned with is vaccine inequity,” she said, adding that this can be overcome by each country’s own initiatives.

       According to published data, the side effects from booster shots are not due to the interval being shortened, Dr Malina said.

       “Similar to previous doses, vaccine recipients should look for the listed side effects, make a report if they get any and get treatment if they do.

       “Do not do any heavy physical activities that may burden the heart for at least four days,” she said.

       On Tuesday, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccine booster shots can be given at least three months after the second dose.

       The move to shorten the interval is similar to measures taken by other countries such as Germany and Australia, which are recommending shorter intervals in an attempt to stop the spread of new variants.

       Khairy added that all seniors aged 60 and above and adults who have received both doses of their vaccines (Pfizer and AstraZeneca) are highly recommended to get their booster vaccine at least three months after receiving the primary vaccine.

       “Individuals with comorbidities, residents and staff at healthcare centres will be given priority to receive the booster shots.

       “We will be using the age de-escalation approach for those who are 18 years old and above and have received two doses of their jabs, starting from 50 years and above, 40 years and above, and subsequently 18 years and above.

       “Adults will receive their booster shots in January and February next year and we will increase the capacity by opening more PPV and private clinics,” said Khairy, adding that Sinovac booster shots will only be given to those who are contraindicated against Pfizer or AstraZeneca.

       Universiti Sains Malaysia virology scientist Dr Muhammad Amir Yunus also felt that cutting the gap from six to three months is one way to increase the rate of booster jabs.

       “I understand that the challenge faced by the authorities now is that very few people seem keen on getting their booster shots.

       “There are people who are fully vaccinated and are not keen on getting their booster shots, thinking that they already have the antibodies.

       “Those who don’t fully understand the importance of booster shots should be educated so they don’t just follow the opinion of those who think that booster shots are not necessary.

       “Some may be sceptical of heterological boosters,” he said, adding that they are relatively safe and offer more benefits than risks, especially as the pandemic is ongoing and travelling restrictions have been lifted.

       Dr Muhammad Amir suggested that the government make it compulsory for people to receive their booster shots.

       “Those who fail to get their booster jabs should be considered as unvaccinated.

       “Perhaps the authorities could also offer incentives (not necessarily monetary) to boost the booster jabs rate?

       “This might prompt those sitting on the fence to get their booster jabs for their own good health,” he added.