Morocco Begins Third Covid-19 Vaccine Dose for Elderly and High-Risk Groups

According to the specialist, the third dose proves necessary for this vulnerable group in order to protect them against severe forms of the virus, reports the MAP. In his argument, he mentioned several scientific realities.

Since the start of the vaccination, points out the specialist, 99.5% of Covid-19 deaths concern unvaccinated people and only 0.5% of fully vaccinated people. Likewise, several studies have shown that six months after vaccination, antibodies begin to decline, even if protection is not ensured solely by antibodies, but also by cellular immunity.

From a medical and immunological point of view, Dr. Tayeb indicated that the elderly, people with chronic diseases weakening the immune system, are less good responders to vaccinations in general compared to the young and non-ill. With the emergence of variants, and essentially Delta, vaccine efficacy decreases, even if fully vaccinated people still maintain very high protection against severe forms and death, he added.

To this end, this category of people is a priority, given the risk of severe forms. Some countries have gone further, taking into account for this 3rd dose, healthcare professionals, teachers, prison employees... Eligible persons will be informed by SMS from 1717, specified the expert.

Regarding side effects, Dr. Tayeb reassured that these are harmless and similar to those observed during the second dose, namely headache, pain at the injection site or fever.