The Health Ministry is considering approving a fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose for people aged 60 and over as well as medical teams in a bid to fend off the spread of the Omicron coronavirus variant.
The ministry held a discussion on the matter Sunday afternoon after Israel announced it will offer the second booster to individuals with a compromised immune system, as well as to nursing home residents and staffers.
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Medical worker administers a fourth dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan
(Photo: Reuters)
"At this current point of uncertainty, I think the potential benefit outweighs the risk, and I do not see a reason to prevent the jab from people,” said Dr. Tal Brosh, a member of the expert panel advising the government.
Samson Assuta Ashdod University Hospital Director Dr. Erez Barenboim called on the ministry to approve the fourth jab as soon as possible, all while warning of a possible outbreak that could see the country’s hospitals overwhelmed
"In order for us to protect our medical staff so that they can treat COVID-19 patients and patients in general, we must vaccinate them with the booster… This decision has to be made now," Barenboim said.
“Our teams are at the forefront of this battle and are at the highest risk of infection. We do not have the privilege of seeing incapacitated."
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Long lines stretching out a coronavirus testing center in Tel Aviv
(Photo: Moti Kimchi)
Health Ministry Director-General Prof. Nachman Ash said on Sunday the ministry will continue to discuss the in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is set to give a press conference at 8 pm regarding the continued treatment of the Omicron variant, his office announced on Sunday.