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Is a third coronavirus vaccine dose needed?
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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The question of the need for a third dose of vaccination against the COVID-19 coronavirus infection has been discussed for a long time. Most experts believe that the introduction of the third stage of vaccination will lead to a shortage of vaccines in underdeveloped countries, which is absolutely unacceptable. In particular, this point of view is shared by the head of the vaccine development group, Dr. Andrew Pollard, and the chief representative of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, Seth Berkley.
Experts note that the use of the third stage even in one developed country would lead to other countries taking up the practice. As a result, far fewer people would be able to be vaccinated with at least two doses of the drugs. "Many people will lose the chance to survive the pandemic," the experts explain.
Scientists are confident that today it is important to distribute the available vaccines wisely. This will allow a larger percentage of the population to be immunized, the global economy and tourism to be resumed, and a return to normal life in most cases.
Meanwhile, the United States has approved a third dose of the vaccine for people with weakened immune systems, including the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. It also allows for the mixing of mRNA vaccines for a booster shot, provided the original vaccine is unavailable. The extra step is especially recommended for patients who have had organ transplants and those with immunodeficiency conditions. However, officials say patients are not required to provide a prescription or a doctor's note stating that they have weakened immune systems and are eligible for an additional dose.
The recommendations are based primarily on the statement by the manufacturers Pfizer that the effectiveness of the BioNTech drug decreases over time: the developers’ studies showed a drop in effectiveness from 96% to 84% just 4 months after the completion of the second stage of vaccination.
The makers of the Moderna vaccine also indicated the likely need for a third booster shot. This statement is due to the emergence of the Delta coronavirus variant, which has been shown to cause relapses in twice-vaccinated patients.
The Chairman of the World Health Organization has voiced the need to declare a moratorium on the introduction of the third stage of vaccination against COVID-19. During this time, specialists must solve the problem of a shortage of vaccines in regions with low vaccination rates.
Information published on the Reuters page