Decision expected on fifth Covid jab in next few days (updated)

A decision regarding the administration of a fifth dose of the Covid-19 vaccine is expected to be taken within the next few days, deputy director of nursing services Evagoras Tambouris said on Tuesday.

The health ministry was due to issue a relevant statement on the issue on Tuesday, but Tambouris said the authorities will take a decision later this week.

Tambouris said the fifth dose would possibly be reserved for the elderly, those living in nursing homes, health professionals and vulnerable groups.

Meanwhile, a total 3,846 people have received the fourth jab since September 20, Tambouris said.

He added that the turnout at vaccination centres has steadily increased and suggested that it will further intensify during the winter months.

To be vaccinated with the fourth jab, five months must have elapsed since the administration of the third one. The fourth jab is still optional, according to the health ministry.