Can the Third Vaccine Dose Help Us End the Pandemic?
According to CNBC, Dr. Eyal Leshem, a physician and professor at Sheba Medical Center, stated that three doses of the vaccine may be sufficient to ensure long-term antibodies against Covid-19.
Specifically, Professor Leshem noted that pharmaceutical companies will continue to adjust vaccines against new variants, but people may not need to receive many additional doses if these variants have mild symptoms like Omicron.
“Those who have received 2-3 vaccine doses and are exposed during the current Omicron wave or future variant outbreaks may not need additional boosters,” Professor Leshem commented.
Nevertheless, Israel has been administering a fourth booster shot since late 2021 for the elderly, healthcare workers, and individuals with weakened immune responses to the virus.
Three doses of the vaccine may be sufficient to ensure long-term antibodies against Covid-19.
Dr. Leshem indicated that this fourth booster has not received as much support from scientists as previous doses. However, the decision was made based on the observed decline in antibody levels after the first two doses, leading to the recommendation for a booster.
“We currently have very little scientific evidence showing that a fourth booster will enhance protection for the population. This move is primarily based on the opinions of a few experts rather than a comprehensive scientific study. Of course, we will consider expert opinions when there is insufficient data, which often occurs in the medical field,” Professor Leshem emphasized.
Meanwhile, other countries are also uncertain about the necessity of a fourth dose. Last week, the UK declared that a fourth booster is not necessary, although the issue is still under review. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals with reduced immunity after vaccination should receive a booster shot.
In December 2021, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla announced that the world would need a fourth dose sooner than expected due to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that widespread booster vaccinations in wealthy countries could hinder pandemic response efforts, as poorer countries, where the virus has the opportunity to mutate, still lack vaccines.
The Fastest Vaccination Country in the World
CNBC reported that Israel is among the fastest vaccination countries globally, with 71% of the population having received their first dose and 64% fully vaccinated with two doses. Nearly 50% of the population has received a third booster shot.
Currently, Israelis who received two doses more than six months ago are no longer considered fully vaccinated and must receive an additional booster. All Israeli citizens over the age of 12 are eligible for a third booster nationwide if they meet the criteria.
In this Jewish nation, all citizens must present electronic proof of full vaccination or recovery from illness to enter recreational facilities such as shopping malls, restaurants, museums, or gyms.
On January 9, 2022, Israel recorded 30,970 positive cases, the highest since the extensive testing campaign began. During the week ending January 9, Israel reported 136,569 positive cases, a 331% increase compared to the previous week.
Hospitalizations in Israel have increased but have not yet reached the peak levels seen in previous outbreaks. Surprisingly, the number of deaths from the virus has not risen despite the widespread transmission of the Omicron variant.
On average, over the past month, two Israelis have died daily from the disease, compared to more than 60 deaths per day in January 2021.
