Over 60s should be eligible for a second coronavirus booster: NZA

People aged 60 to 69 who would like to have a second coronavirus booster vaccination should be able to make an appointment for one, the health council Gezondheidsraad said on Friday.

As yet, there is no reason to offer the entire population a booster jab but people in their 60s should now be eligible, alongside people in their 70s and older, the health council said.

An appointment can be made three months after the first booster or a coronavirus infection.

Health minister Ernst Kuipers still has to decide whether or not to accept the recommendation. The fourth jab is being classed as a ‘repeat’ vaccination in official circles.

The take up rate for second boosters remains low and only around a third of people eligible for one have come forward so far, according to government figures.

So far 85% of people aged 12 and over have had two basic vaccines while 58% have had two vaccines and one booster.