In the UAE, a new Sinopharm vaccine has been approved for emergency use as a booster dose. NCEMA, the National Emergency Crisis, and Disaster Management Authority made the announcement on December 27, 2021.
NCEMA also provided details of the new vaccine and the categories of people who are eligible to receive it as a booster shot at a media briefing on December 28. Read on to learn more.
What is the new Sinopharm vaccine?
Sinopharm CNBG (China National Biotec Group) developed the vaccine as a new recombinant protein vaccine that is very effective at producing antibodies. During its press briefing, NCEMA said that a new protein-based vaccine could provide more widespread protection against variants.
In case of exposure, the vaccine uses S protein, which surrounds the COVID-19 virus and helps the body identify and fight the virus. The technology will help prevent several variants.
In addition, this technology has been used to produce other vaccines, such as the Hepatitis B vaccine.
The vaccine was approved following strict monitoring and evaluation of trials carried out in the UAE. NCEMA stated that the country’s approval for emergency use of the vaccine is in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
Who can get the booster shot?
Six months after receiving the Sinopharm vaccine, people over the age of 18 may receive the booster shot.
From the start of 2022, everyone who received the Sinopharm vaccine will be given the vaccine as a booster shot.
After undergoing a medical evaluation, individuals who are allergic to any of the vaccine components are exempt from receiving the vaccine.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those planning a pregnancy within six months are exempt from the aforementioned vaccine, but they may receive other types of authorized vaccines.
Also, NCEMA informed the public that any side effects of Sinopharm CNBG’s vaccine are similar to other vaccines.