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France extends second Covid vaccine boosters to over 60s

The Local France
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France extends second Covid vaccine boosters to over 60s
Second booster shots of the Covid vaccine are now open to all over 60s. Photo by THOMAS COEX / AFP

The French government has announced an extension of the second booster programme for the Covid vaccine to over 60s, as well as those with a medical condition.

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Previously offered only to over 80s and those with a medical condition, the programme will now be extended to those aged 60 and over, health minister Olivier Véran announced on Thursday, reaching an extra 500,000 people.

He told RTL: "We are opening the second booster to people aged 60 and over, six months after their first booster."

The change comes into effect immediately, although the second booster shot can only be given once six months has passed since the first booster.

As ever, there is no need to wait for an invitation, if you fit the criteria you can book your appointment directly with a pharmacy, GP or vaccine centre.

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A second booster is entirely voluntary, and will not be required to keep 'fully vaccinated' status for those in the eligible groups.

Those who qualify for the second booster shot are now

  • Anyone aged 60 and over
  • Anyone under the age of 60 who has a chronic or severe illness including cancer patients, those with a compromised immune system and people living with chronic conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure or a respiratory condition. Find the full list here.

EXPLAINED Who qualifies for a second Covid vaccine booster shot?

The Haute Autorité de Santé, France's medical regulator, considers that extending second boosters to the entire population is not "relevant" at this stage.

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