• “About six million people over 20 years of age are still to obtain the booster dose”

By Ajith Siriwardana   

Health experts yesterday urged people to obtain the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine without delay, as the current stocks of vaccines are set to expire by October 31.   

Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige told a news conference at the Government Information Department that a little over eight million people above 20 years have obtained the booster dose out of the total population of 14.4 million above 20 years so far.  

He said there are ample stocks of vaccines in the country right now as the total requirement of the booster doses for people over 20 years had been procured.  

“About six million people over 20 years of age are still to obtain the booster dose. All eligible people have obtained the primary vaccination by now. However, it is vital to obtain the booster dose to prevent the new variant from spreading at present,” he said.  

He said the health authorities have recommended a fourth dose for those above 60 and people with chronic diseases and added that anyone above 20 can obtain a fourth dose if they are interested.