4 million Egyptians eligible for 3rd coronavirus vaccine shot starting December: Cabinet

CAIRO – 24 November 2021: A total of 4.1 million Egyptian citizens are eligible for a third booster coronavirus vaccine shot six months or more after taking the second vaccine dose, Government Spokesman Nader Saad said on Wednesday.

A total of 29 million citizens have received the first coronavirus vaccine shot, Saad said, noting that those who also received the second shot totals 15 million.

Citizens of the 15-18 years old age group will receive a single dose of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine, Saad noted.

 Egypt has not taken a decision on vaccinating pregnant and breastfeeding women against COVID-19 yet, said official spokesman for the Ministry of Health and Population Hossam Abdel Ghaffar on Sunday.

He added in remarks to Egypt Today that the ministry is currently conducting research and studies to ensure that all vaccines are safe for these groups.

All vaccines are similar when it comes to the side effects but vary in terms of effectiveness. 

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in November issued directives for expanding COVID-19 vaccination campaigns for citizens and facilitating relevant procedures.

Sisi also instructed to proceed with awareness-raising campaigns for all citizens as regards anti-coronavirus precautionary measures, especially in crowded places like government bodies, universities, and schools.