DOH tells Sinopharm vax recipients to wait for WHO booster shot recommendation

THE Department of Health (DOH) will seek the assistance of the World Health Organization (WHO) to identify the Covid-19 vaccine brand suitable as a booster shot for individuals inoculated with Sinopharm vaccine.

National Vaccination Operation Center (NVOC) Chairman Myrna C. Cabotaje disclosed they are considering the option since the country’s vaccine expert panel (VEP) currently lacks data to determine the compatible Covid-19 brand to be used as booster shot for Sinopharm jab recipients.

“We are also looking at the release of the World Health Organization, since they provide a platform on how to give boosters. We will see what boosters can be used for Sinopharm,” Cabotaje said in Filipino.

But she noted it may take a “couple of weeks” before they can come out with the recommended booster shots for those vaccinated with Sinopharm.

She issued the statement since many individuals, who were vaccinated with Sinopharm, have yet to get a booster shot.

“I know many of them have been waiting for a long time, that is why we are pushing [to get the recommended booster shots]. Many of them have been asking us about it,” Cabotaje said.

The health official advised those inoculated with Sinopharm to just wait for their official announcement on the matter before they get their booster shots.

To note, President Duterte, who was already vaccinated with Sinopharm, announced in his public address last January 6, 2022 that he already got Sinopharm jab as his booster shot even without the DOH study or recommendation assuring its safety.

Acting Presidential Spokesman Karlo B. Nograles said Duterte got the booster shot based on the recommendation of the President’s physician.

Last Wednesday, Nograles said Duterte has not experienced any adverse side effects from getting his Sinopharm booster shot.