EU states want to take joint action on the fourth vaccination

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The EU states want to proceed uniformly with a possible fourth coronavirus vaccination. The EU Commission will “draw up a recommendation on the fourth vaccination within the shortest possible time based on scientific expertise,“ said German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) today after a meeting with his EU colleagues in Brussels.

The majority of the health ministers of the EU countries had supported his proposal to harmonize national vaccination strategies. The recommendation of the EU Commission could “also be an essential compass for Germany in dealing with the second boost.“

Before the meeting, Lauterbach had campaigned for a fourth coronavirus vaccination for everyone aged 60 and over. “Recent data from Israel shows: Those over 60 or suffering from pre-existing conditions should get a fourth vaccination,” the minister said.

After the meeting, French Minister Olivier Veran said that he hoped they would have a coordinated, unified position as early as next week, with an eye on the most vulnerable populations.

FDA approves fourth vaccination

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a fourth vaccination dose with the vaccines from Biontech and Pfizer, and Moderna for people aged 50 and older. There would have to be at least four months between the first and second booster vaccination.

An additional booster increases protection against severe Covid 19 disease. In addition, there are no other safety concerns. The FDA also approved an additional booster vaccination for people with a severely weakened immune system.