Coronavirus: about 25 people test Covid-19 positive, as Hong Kong opens BioNTech booster shots to all over 18s from January 1
- Hongkongers fully vaccinated with the German-made vaccine, one of the few categories that did not qualify for a third jab, can sign up from 8am on New Year’s Day
- City confirms five new imported Covid-19 cases on Friday, fewer than 25 preliminary-positive ones and more Omicron infections
Hong Kong authorities reported a wave of some 25 new preliminary-positive coronavirus cases on Friday, while announcing that those who had received two doses of the BioNTech vaccine would be able to sign up for a third from January 1.
The surge in arrivals testing positive coincided with official confirmation of five Covid-19 cases and another seven Omicron ones from previously recorded imported infections.
To date, a third vaccine shot has been available only to high-risk groups such as the elderly and immunocompromised and those who have received two doses of the mainland China-produced Sinovac version.
In a statement, the government urged the public, including those fully inoculated with the German-made BioNTech vaccine, to get a booster shot, which can be taken if at least six months have passed since the second jab.
“Eligible persons should take the third vaccine doses as soon as possible to strengthen [the vaccine’s protective effect] and build an immunity barrier in the community,” the statement said.
Those who need a booster to travel can request it just three months after their second jab, but must be assessed by staff at a government vaccination centre.