UK PM Boris Johnson Says Booster Vaccine Could Provide Higher Protection Against Omicron Variant

Prime Minister of United Kingdom Boris Johnson. (Wikimedia Commons/Administration of the President of Ukraine)

JAKARTA - Prime Minister of United Kingdom Boris Johnson said on Tuesday it was possible that a booster vaccination or booster dose of COVID-19 could increase protection against severe disease from the new Omicron variant, including if its effectiveness against infection diminishes.

"The answer is everywhere and it's always been to get a booster because we think it's very likely a booster (and) being vaccinated, will give you more protection," PM Johnson said.

Asked about Moderna Chief Executive Stephane Bancel's comments that there could be a 'material decrease' in the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Omicron variant, PM Johnson said Bancel may be right, but stressed that did not mean the vaccine being administered was completely ineffective.

"He's not always saying that this means the vaccine is not effective against serious illness or death. But it may be less effective in preventing transmission," said PM Johnson.

"We're seeing some evidence from South Africa of the Omicron variant being transmitted among people who have been vaccinated, but it's not clear to what extent this means you're going to get a severe case of Omicron."