Health Ministry Optimistic About Authorisation for Non-mRNA Booster Option
Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has expressed a strong likelihood that the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine will soon be included as a booster option in the country’s National Vaccination Programme (NVP). Kenneth Mak, the Director of Medical Services at MOH, shared the optimism during a Multi-Ministry Task Force (MTF) press conference on January 5. The Health Sciences Authority is finalising its evaluation of the NVX-CoV2373 vaccine, and a formal statement will be issued shortly.
Mak highlighted the promising efficacy of Novavax’s vaccine, especially against the Delta and Omicron variants, placing it ahead of other non-mRNA vaccines in terms of performance in Singapore. In addition, Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung confirmed that Singapore has signed an Advanced Purchase Agreement with Novavax, ensuring its addition to the country’s vaccine portfolio.
The NVX-CoV2373 vaccine is expected to serve as a valuable booster for individuals who have received non-mRNA vaccines such as Sinovac’s CoronaVac and Sinopharm’s BBIBP-CorV, both of which require three doses. Currently, those vaccinated with non-mRNA vaccines are not yet due for a booster, but Novavax’s vaccine is likely to be available when the time comes.
MOH also clarified that individuals who received non-mRNA vaccines will be eligible for their booster shots within 270 days following their third dose, mirroring the timeline for those who received mRNA vaccines.
