Rt index over 1%, Figliuolo: “There is the possibility of doing the third dose at all”

“We are better than others, thanks to the vaccines.” The Minister of Health Roberto Speranza does not minimize the WHO alert that Europe is once again at the center of the pandemic, however, tells of a different Italian situation. “We have an increasing incidence but much lower than most of the other countries. The alarm must however be considered with the utmost attention and requires us to insist on the fundamental terrain, namely the vaccination campaign ”.

The incidence has risen. For the first time since August, the Rt index is above 1%, but it is a lower figure than the rest of the Europe area which sees the Eastern states, but also Germany, colored red. Italy, on the other hand, has green regions. 83.3% of the population completed the vaccination cycle, which means about 45 million citizens. With the recovered, 87.7% of people with coverage are reached.

Third doses

To maintain this situation, the main way is vaccination, in addition to the rules of distancing, hand washing and the use of masks. “The third doses are the first and main ground on which to focus our energies: we must insist on the vaccine as a fundamental tool to manage this phase,” said Speranza. Currently the third dose is «strongly recommended for people over 60 who have completed the vaccination cycle for 6 months and then to the frail, regardless of age, and to all those who have had a single dose of J&J ». From next week we will work to expand to new ranges.

The extraordinary commissioner Figliuolo said: «Yesterday we exceeded the 110 thousand third doses carried out. The daily peak of third doses of vaccine administered that we expect, we will have between December and February. For 2022 we have already optioned such doses that we are able to give the third dose to all those who have completed any type of vaccination cycle ».

Green Pass and colors

There are no new restrictions. The color system linked to the intensive care occupation remains in force. The minister reiterated: «In Italy, at this moment, there is an obligation to masks indoors and the obligation if there are risks of gathering even outdoors. We are still in the epidemic phase ». The government’s intention is to continue using the Green Pass which extends for 12 months with the third dose.

State of emergency

The government will decide in the days immediately preceding the deadline.

Children

The US FDA has approved Pfizer’s Covid vaccine in a dose of one third for children. In Italy it could arrive only after the pronouncement of the European drug agency. Franco Locatelli explained: «Lo 5-11 year old study showed safety and efficacy as for the adolescent part, I therefore believe that the risk-benefit balance is in favor because the possible myocarditis is higher as a probability following the Covid infection compared to vaccination “.

Drug

Aifa has already taken steps to acquire an adequate amount of the oral antiviral drug for Covid-19 authorized in Great Britain.

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