OCTA Research warns spike in COVID cases if booster shots not given

MANILA, Philippines — COVID-19 cases in the country could again increase rapidly if booster shots will not be administered to Filipinos, considering the waning efficacy of vaccines, OCTA Research said Thursday.

OCTA Research fellow Guido David cited a theory that other countries experienced a resurgence of cases since the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines has already diminished.

“There is one, I would say, a small concern na nakikita natin (that we see) in other countries. It’s the waning of the vaccine efficacy after a period of six to nine months, and there is a theory na kaya nagkaroon ng (the reason why there are) spikes in some countries after six months is because of the waning efficacy,” he said at the Pandesal Forum.

“Ibig sabihin, once the vaccines start losing their effectiveness, we may see more outbreaks. That is possible. That is why we support having the booster shots even before it happens,” he added.

The booster shots should be provided to those who were the first to receive the vaccines, such as health workers, senior citizens, and individuals with comorbidities, according to David.

The Philippines started the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in March.

“If we have booster shots around this year up to early next year, we could help prevent these spikes in cases,” David added.

David stressed that the administration of booster shots should be done “as soon as we can.” He noted that the supply will not be an issue as the country expects to receive a huge delivery of vaccines in the coming months.

The government aims to launch COVID-19 booster shots and third doses on November 15, according to vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr.

He also said that COVID-19 vaccines that arrived in the country starting November 3 would be used as booster shots for early next year.

KGA