Don't Wait For New Vaccines, Get Jabbed Now: Expert

A respiratory medicine expert says people should get vaccinated against Covid-19 as soon as possible, instead of waiting for drug manufacturers to develop new vaccines against the Omicron variant.

David Hui made the comment on an RTHK programme on Monday, noting it would take a while before a new generation of vaccines will be available.

“Even if the manufacturers can produce the second generation vaccine in a short period of time, they still have to test it afterwards. They will not roll it out into the market immediately. That’s why Hong Kong should not wait. We should use the vaccines available now to protect ourselves," he said.

He noted that overseas evidence showed booster shots can greatly increase a person's level of antibodies and said Hong Kong should consider allowing more people to get them soon.

Hui said an expert committee advising the government will discuss the matter.

At present, people who had a second dose of Sinovac at least six months ago or those in priority groups can get a booster shot.