The health ministry on Tuesday said the aim of the extra dose is to strengthen the immune system of those most at-risk, as well as lowering the chance of infection between carers and patients. The third dose can be administered at the earliest six months after the first vaccination schedule was completed. Regardless of the initial formula used, mRNA solutions (Pfizer/Biontech or Moderna) will be administered in the booster round.

The booster comes at a time where a is threatening to lap over Luxembourg and and staff. People eligible to receive the extra jab will receive an invitation from the government with instructions on how to schedule an appointment.

However, their CovidCheck vaccination certificate even if they don’t get their third jab.

Luxembourg has seen its vaccination rate stagnate over the past months as indecisive citizens and anti-vax persons refrain from getting their first dose. The national cover is currently at 74.9%, a far cry from the 85% needed for covid restrictions to be relaxed.  

People below the age of 65 and those with a pre-existing condition that puts them at risk have are not yet being invited to a follow-up, the ministry said. Immunodeficient patients, those aged 75 or over and nursing home residents were already given the option for a booster short.

On 8 November, the ministry of health had released the results of the first vaccination phase going from end of December 2020 to June 2021.