The Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has called for an early and two-stage rollout of COVID-19 booster doses for vulnerable groups this coming autumn.
The THL’s recommendation, issued on Thursday, prioritizes booster doses for high-risk groups such as nursing home residents, individuals over 80 years old, and those with significant immunodeficiencies, regardless of age. The agency stressed the importance of initiating vaccinations promptly upon the arrival of the vaccines in Finland, according to a report by Xinhua.
The recommendation also includes individuals aged 75 to 79, who, while at a comparatively lower risk of severe illness, are still advised to receive additional protection.
Additionally, the THL emphasizes the simultaneous administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, particularly for individuals aged 65 and above, as well as for those aged 18 and above with underlying health conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19.
The primary aim of these measures is to reduce hospitalizations and fatalities related to COVID-19.
According to Finnish national broadcaster Yle, last fall saw 100 deaths in the worst weeks, with more than 800 Finns succumbing to COVID-19 in November-December. The high mortality rate was attributed to the elderly receiving their vaccines too late.
