More than 5,785 (82%) border workers eligible for a 6-month booster vaccination have received it so far, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said.
“It’s very strong adoption given that we announced the requirement the week before Christmas, but we need to keep it going,” said Chris Hipkins.
“We know that the most likely place for Omicron to enter the community is at the border, so we want all border and eligible healthcare and disability workers to have the added protection that the booster shot offer to protect them and their families. The border continues to be our first line of defense,” said Chris Hipkins.
“The Department of Health continues to work with sectors that have compulsory workers to help them identify and manage recalls for their staff. It encourages all employers, whether covered by the vaccination order or not, to support their employees to get their booster shots as soon as they are able.
“After consultation with personnel most likely to come into contact with Omicron, personnel covered by the Vaccination Order, including cross-border commuters, MIQ and health and disability workers, should have their recall by 15 February 2022, or no later than six months after their second dose for those who were only recently vaccinated.
“All other workforces covered by the vaccination order, including education, corrections, police, defense, fire and emergency personnel, will be required to have their booster vaccinations by March 1, 2022.
“Anyone aged 18 or over who received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine at least four months ago can get their booster shot free. Booster doses are available at all vaccination centers, including walk-in visits and drive-thru,” Chris Hipkins mentioned.
“The most important thing New Zealanders can do to prepare for Omicron is to get a booster dose as soon as they are eligible. I would like to thank all New Zealanders who have already arranged and received their boosters .”
Notes for editors:
- On December 21, 2021, Cabinet announced a series of precautionary measures to keep Omicron out of the community for as long as possible, including requiring eligible border and health officials to be vaccinated.
- International evidence shows that booster doses provide good protection against Omicron, and by achieving high levels of booster protection we will be able to reduce the spread and severity of Omicron when it arrives.
- Affected workers who are not eligible for a booster vaccination on the dates set must receive a booster vaccination no later than 6 months (183 days) after the end of their primary treatment. However, they are eligible for a booster shot from four months after the end of their primary vaccination cycle and the ministry recommends that they take the earliest dose, rather than waiting the full six months.
- Persons under the age of 18 are not eligible for a booster vaccination. People covered by the Vaccinations Ordinance who are under 18 can continue to work and should not receive their booster until they turn 18.
The 2022 Amending Public Health Response to COVID-19 (Vaccinations) Order can be viewed here: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2022/0004/latest/
